The Official FA Thread [Archive]

H1Man

02-22-2006, 02:27 AM

Jets designate Abraham franchise player

John Abraham is sick of waiting around for the Jets to make him a long-term commitment.

The defensive end was designated the team's franchise player Tuesday for the second straight year, creating another unhappy situation. Though Abraham stands to make $8.33 million in 2006, all he wanted was for the Jets to prove they want him to stick around for the future.

Now the Jets are expected to explore trade options because they are so far over the salary cap. Abraham's agents, Rich Rosa and Tony Agnone, stopped short of demanding a trade but are also interested in making a move.

"They're going to do what we're doing, they're going to explore their options as well," Rosa said. "If you can get something for someone and it benefits your team, you take a look at that option. They're playing out the scenarios much like we are here."

The Jets are approximately $26 million over the salary cap. Committing more than $8 million to Abraham locks in money that may force them to cut other players. That includes cornerback Ty Law, fullback Jerald Sowell and tackle Jason Fabini, all starters.

After Abraham was franchised last year, then-general manager Terry Bradway said the team would work toward giving him a commitment if he could stay healthy for an entire season. Abraham did that, playing all 16 games for the first time since 2002.

Once again he got nothing.

Bradway is gone from his post, with Mike Tannenbaum taking over as GM.

"We understand that they have a right to franchise him," Rosa said. "Is it disappointing that what Terry said hasn't come into fruition? Yes. It's a business. Mike's the GM. Mike has to do what Mike has to do."

Abraham said last season that he wanted to be traded if the Jets didn't give him a long-term deal. He also said if he was franchised again, he would do the same thing as last year and sit out the offseason and training camp.

"By franchising John, it speaks volumes about what type of player we feel he is, and we stand behind our decision, with the full realization that at this point in time it is in the best interest of the club from both a financial and competitive standpoint," Tannenbaum said in a statement.

Last year, Abraham had 10.5 sacks even though he came in late to training camp. Abraham, a three-time Pro Bowl selection in six seasons, has 53.5 sacks, fourth on the team's all-time list.
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5348642

H1Man

02-22-2006, 02:55 AM

There is almost certainly going to be a trade here.

And I have a feeling we might try and make a play for him. We have a huge need at DE and Henderson is familiar with Abraham from their time in NY.

Jethro34

02-22-2006, 08:53 AM

WTFchris

02-22-2006, 10:36 AM

Ok, here's my question. If the Lions truly want to force the issue with Joey at QB, do you think there is any way they try to negotiate an extension with him and get a little more cap space in the process?

I think they'd have to have a plan B in place (ie Griese would come here). I don't know why Joey would do it anyway unless they could work an opt out clause into it for him if he is demoted to backup for a certain amount of games. That way he could opt out of his extension if the Lions go in another direction. He wouldn't want to be a backup here, so that would help him.

H1Man

02-22-2006, 04:29 PM

Ok, here's my question. If the Lions truly want to force the issue with Joey at QB, do you think there is any way they try to negotiate an extension with him and get a little more cap space in the process?

The problem with renegotiating Joey's contract is the fact that his contract will have to be extended. Right now he only has one year left, if we rework his deal it will probably be longer. So if Joey doesn't work out and we have to cut him next offseason, we will still take a big cap hit. And as Chris said, Joey has no reason whatso ever to do it.

Ideally, NY would want Joey to replace Pennington and we can swing a Abraham for Joey trade. But that's probably never going to happen.

H1Man

02-22-2006, 04:33 PM

Bills designate Clements as franchise player

Cornerback Nate Clements' plan to pursue a lucrative contract on the free agent market was put on hold Wednesday when the Buffalo Bills designated him their franchise player.

The move was expected and allows the Bills to retain the rights to Clements by offering the five-year starter and 2004 Pro Bowl selection a one-year contract worth $5.89 million.

"We consider Nate a valuable member of our defense and believe he will play an important role in re-establishing our defense as one of the toughest units in the league," general manager Marv Levy said in a press release. Levy added he remains optimistic the Bills can negotiate a long-term deal with Clements, who was considered one of the prime defensive backs on the market.

Clements' agent, Todd France, said he was not surprised by the Bills' decision.

Clements can stay away from team functions, including minicamps and training camp, until accepting the offer. That could mean Clements would miss valuable time learning the Bills' defensive philosophy under new coach Dick Jauron.

The Bills have the right to pull back the offer at any time, which would make Clements an unrestricted free agent.

Although the move makes Clements one of the NFL's top-paid cornerbacks next season, the salary is well below what he envisioned getting when free agency opens March 3.

Clements created a stir during training camp last summer, saying he considered himself the NFL's best cornerback and wanted a deal similar to the seven-year, $63 million contract that included an $18 million bonus that Denver's Champ Bailey signed in 2004.

Selected 21st overall in the 2001 draft out of Ohio State, Clements has 20 career interceptions and started 72 consecutive games since landing the starter's job midway through his rookie season.

Also a threat returning punts, Clements leads the Bills with six career touchdown returns, including four by interception.

Clements is coming off a down year. He finished third on the team with a career-low two interceptions - the first time he failed to lead the Bills in that category - and third with 127 tackles.

Buffalo, which also struggled on offense, finished 5-11 and failed to make the playoffs for the sixth straight year.
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5352686

H1Man

02-22-2006, 04:34 PM

Colts lock up Wayne for nearly $40 million

The free-agency period has yet to begin but one potential free agent has already hit for a big payday.

FOXSports.com has learned that the Colts agreed to terms Wednesday with wide receiver Reggie Wayne on a six-year deal worth nearly $40 million including $13.5 million in bonus money. Wayne was slated to become an unrestricted free agent and his signing now weakens an already extremely weak receiver free agent class.

While the contract terms have been agreed upon by both sides Wayne has not yet officially signed and should as soon as the NFL approves the deal.

The deal also makes him the third highest-paid receiver in the NFL behind teammate Marvin Harrison and Randy Moss. By getting the Wayne deal done the Colts do not have to use the franchise tag on him, a move they were primed to make had they not worked out a new contract. It's unclear whether they will use the tag on free agent running back Edgerrin James, but right now that appears to be unlikely.

Wayne had 83 catches this past season for 1,055 yards and five touchdowns in the Colts' high-powered attack.
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5351986

H1Man

02-22-2006, 04:37 PM

Jets part with Law, cut Fiedler

The New York Jets slashed their payroll Wednesday by parting with Pro Bowl cornerback Ty Law and cutting a host of other veterans, including quarterback Jay Fiedler, offensive tackle Jason Fabini and fullback Jerald Sowell.

The team is about $26 million over the salary cap and must be at or under the cap by March 3, the opening day of free agency.

The Jets have been negotiating with quarterback Chad Pennington, who twice in the last two years had rotator cuff surgery, in an attempt to reduce a cap number that could be as high as $12 million.

New York has shaken up its staff and is trying to rebuild under new coach Eric Mangini. These latest moves came a day after the Jets designated defensive end John Abraham their franchise player at $8.3 million, although they may try to trade him.

Also cut were three reserves: linebacker Barry Gardner, defensive tackle Lance Legree and wide receiver Harry Williams Jr.

The Jets and Law agreed to not exercise contract options for the next three seasons that were part of the deal when he signed last year. The 32-year-old cornerback spent his first 10 seasons with New England and tied for the NFL lead with 10 interceptions last season.

"We were very fortunate to have a player of Ty's caliber in 2005," general manager Mike Tannebaum said. "Ty is a warrior and a class act and we appreciate his contributions this past season."

Fiedler, who signed with the team last season, injured his shoulder seven plays after Pennington was hurt in the third game last season and did not play again.

Fabini and Sowell are longtime starters - Fabini started his first 114 games at offensive tackle until he tore a chest muscle Nov. 18 and was lost for the season. Sowell played for nine seasons.
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5351046

H1Man

02-22-2006, 04:56 PM

Rogers to return; deal or tag due for Backus

Wide receiver Charles Rogers will return to the Lions, president Matt Millen said Tuesday. He had better be ready to work hard.

Rogers has been a huge disappointment since the Lions drafted him second overall in 2003. He has played only 15 games because of injuries, a suspension and benchings.

The Lions are trying to recoup $10.184 million of his $14.4-million signing bonus because they say the drug suspension he served last season put him in default of his contract.

But Rogers is relatively cheap to bring back. His lack of playing time kept him from triggering escalator clauses in his contract, and his base salary is $757,917 for 2006.

Rogers still has a lot of upside, and the new coaches say they will demand more of Rogers and fellow receivers Roy Williams and Mike Williams.

"I've got to believe they're going to be liking it -- getting down the field, stretching the field," said coach Rod Marinelli, who met with Rogers last week. "But within that is the work ethic that's going to come with it."

NOTEBOOK: If the Lions can't work out a long-term deal with left tackle Jeff Backus by Thursday's deadline, they will use their franchise or transition tag on him, effectively keeping him out of the free-agent market. "I want to try to keep on pushing to try to get the thing worked out here shortly," Millen said. But "I wouldn't be afraid of a tag at all."
747
http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060222/SPORTS01/602220350/1049/SPORTS

H1Man

02-24-2006, 02:09 AM

2006 franchise and transition players

The following is the list of all the players designated as franchise or transition players leading up to Thursday's deadline (4 ET).

Franchise players must be offered the average of the top five salaries at their position or 20 percent over their 2005 salary. Franchise players (unless they are exclusive) can negotiate with other teams, but any team signing a franchise player would have to compensate the players' former team with a pair of first-round draft choices if the offer is not matched. If a player is named an "exclusive franchise" player, they can't talk to any other teams.

Transition players must be offered the average of the top 10 salaries at their position for the club to maintain rights of first refusal. There is no draft-pick compensation if a transition player ends up signing with another team.

Here are players that have been listed as franchise or transition players for 2006:

http://img54.imageshack.us/img54/7551/tags8tb.jpg

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2341736

H1Man

02-24-2006, 02:16 AM

I am sort of suprised that Hutchinson was only given a Transition tag instead of the Franchise tag.

H1Man

02-24-2006, 02:17 AM

49ers cut CB Plummer, decline to tag Peterson

Viewed as one of the NFL's top young cornerbacks only three years ago, Ahmed Plummer suddenly is a man without a team, after the San Francisco 49ers released the six-year veteran on Thursday afternoon.

The move came after two injury-plagued seasons in which Plummer appeared in just nine games, and after San Francisco coaches grew increasingly frustrated at his inability to stay healthy. Plummer, 29, figures to merit considerable interest in free agency if he is healthy, but that is a considerable caveat given the last two seasons.

The team's first-round choice in the 2000 draft, Plummer was one of three veterans released Thursday by the 49ers, joining wide receiver Johnnie Morton and defensive end Chris Cooper in the unemployment line. In total, the niners released nine players. But the former Ohio State standout, who in 2004 signed a five-year, $25 million contract extension that included $11 million in guaranteed bonuses, is the most notable of the three.

"This is the most difficult part of a great business, and you don't make these kinds of decisions lightly when you are dealing with a player's future," head coach Mike Nolan said in a statement released by the club. "The reality of the current NFL economic system is that you are forced to make tough economic decisions that are not based entirely on the football field."

The 49ers also declined to use the franchise tag on two-time Pro Bowl linebacker Julian Peterson, making him an unrestricted free agent next month.

Peterson, who missed most of the 2004 season with a torn Achilles' tendon, was one of the team's most popular players and earned $5.289 million last season.

If the team used the franchise tag on Peterson as they did in 2004, he would have been guaranteed $7.169 million next season if he didn't sign a long-term deal. San Francisco could have matched any deal he signed or gotten compensation if he left with the franchise tag.

The release of Plummer, Morton and Cooper will save the 49ers some cap room for 2006 but not a great deal. The team still owned Plummer $12.5 million in base salaries for the next three seasons, including a base salary of $5.5 million for 2006, but San Francisco will incur so-called "acceleration" charges for bonuses paid to the players in the past.

Plummer missed only three games during his first four seasons in the league. A starter from the outset of his career, Plummer combined good size and coverage skills and was certainly an emerging cornerback before injuries truncated his 2004 and 2005 seasons. Victimized by shoulder, neck and ankle injuries, he appeared in just six games in 2004 and three contests last season. Some coaches felt that Plummer did not make a strong enough effort to get back onto the field.

Obviously, cutting the onetime highly-prized defender was a bit easier for Nolan, since his regime was not responsible for drafting him. It will be interesting to see now how many other teams contact Plummer to gauge the state of his rehabilitation. For his career, Plummer has appeared in 70 games, and has compiled 316 tackles, 12 interceptions and 51 passes defensed.

A 13-year veteran, Morton was signed by the 49ers in 2005 to lend experience to a very young wideout corps. But he caught just 21 passes for 288 yards and, while a good mentor for the youngsters, no longer figured into San Francisco's plans for 2006. Morton has 624 catches for 8,719 yards and 43 touchdowns in a career that has included stints with three different teams.

Cooper was primarily a backup end for the 49ers in 2005. A former sixth-round draft choice in 2001, he has played with three different teams.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2342357

WTFchris

02-24-2006, 09:01 AM

How much would Peterson cost us? Supposing Bailey and Lehman could stay healthy, that would be a solid LB core.

Jethro34

02-24-2006, 09:36 AM

For some reason I have a feeling Plummer and/or Peterson will end up with Mora Jr. in Atlanta for a reasonable price. I think we would have to seriously overpay for either of them.

H1Man

02-25-2006, 03:02 AM

Patriots decline on placing tag on Vinatieri

Adam Vinatieri may get a chance to test free agency after the New England Patriots declined to protect the man who kicked two Super Bowl-winning field goals with the franchise player tag.

The designation would have forced the team to commit to a one-year $3 million offer to Vinatieri. Without the tag, the team will not be compensated if he signs with someone else.

"It just didn't feel like the right thing to do," Patriots coach Bill Belichick said. "We considered all our options and decided not to tag anybody."

The Patriots still have until March 3 to sign Vinatieri. But negotiations around the league have been held up because the collective bargaining agreement between the players' union and the teams is set to expire next week, and 2006 salary cap numbers remain unknown.

"I don't think you can do much of anything," Belichick said Thursday at the NFL scouting combine in Indianapolis. "I don't know what we're working with [financially]. Until that's defined, it seems like an exercise in futility."

A message left Friday for Vinatieri's agent, Jonathan Hurst, was not immediately returned.

Vinatieri, 33, has been named the team's franchise player twice, including last year, when he was paid $2.5 million.

The Patriots have 17 unrestricted free agents, with Vinatieri and receiver David Givens the most notable.

"Every situation is independent," Belichick said. "It takes two parties, or three to a point, to make a deal, and when that happens, we have one, and if it doesn't, we don't."
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2343252

H1Man

02-26-2006, 06:55 PM

Patriots release cornerback Starks

The New England Patriots released veteran cornerback Duane Starks after his lone season ended in injury.

Starks was placed on injured reserve Nov. 10 because of a shoulder injury. He was released on Saturday.

The Patriots acquired the 31-year-old Starks in an offseason trade with Arizona. He intercepted 25 passes in his first seven seasons with the Baltimore Ravens and Cardinals, but had no interceptions in seven games with the Patriots.

New England had envisioned Starks as a replacement for Ty Law, who left the Patriots after the 2004 season. Baltimore drafted Starks in the first round, 10th overall, of the 1998 draft.
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5362532

H1Man

02-27-2006, 09:31 PM

Moulds rejects offer to restructure contract

Eric Moulds rejected the Buffalo Bills' offer Monday for restructuring his hefty contract, a decision that could lead the team to release its veteran star receiver by as early as this week.

"Based on what they're proposing, I guess it's not encouraging," Moulds' agent Harry Henderson told The Associated Press by telephone following a meeting with team officials. "We're way off. ... Our attitude has been optimistic, but realistically it may not happen."

Moulds, a 10-year veteran and the team's senior player, has two years left on his contract, scheduled to count $10.85 million against the salary cap next season. His salary would represent about one-ninth of the projected cap, a figure the Bills deem far too expensive.

Unless a new deal can be reached, the Bills would have little choice but to cut Moulds, which would save the team about $5.5 million in cap room. His release could come as early as this week, prior to the NFL's free-agency period, which is scheduled to open Friday. The Bills declined comment except to confirm that a meeting took place between the team and Moulds' representatives.

Buffalo's first-round pick in the 1996 draft, Moulds is a three-time Pro Bowl selection and ranks second on the team in several career receiving categories.

Henderson said no further talks are scheduled but added he is open to negotiations and would like to cooperate with the team in an attempt to keep Moulds in Buffalo. Henderson wouldn't provide details of the Bills' offer or what his client would be willing to accept.

"We're open," he said. "Good football teams find ways to keep their best players."

Henderson wouldn't entirely rule out Moulds accepting a pay cut, but said: "Eric is under contract so we have a deal. It's the Bills that want to change."

Moulds is coming off a down season but still led the team with 81 catches for 816 yards in 15 games. He was suspended for one game by former coach Mike Mularkey for conduct detrimental to the team after an apparent sideline dispute with an assistant coach.

The suspension, which came in Week 14, didn't affect Moulds' performance down the stretch. He returned in top form, finishing with 27 catches for 305 yards and a touchdown in the final three games.

Dick Jauron has taken over as coach following Mularkey's sudden resignation last month, while Marv Levy is the Bills' new general manager replacing Tom Donahoe. Both previously expressed hope the team could reach a deal to keep Moulds.

Moulds has been a full-time starter since his third season in Buffalo. In 154 games, he has 675 catches for 9,096 yards and 48 touchdowns. Only Andre Reed has more catches (941) and yards (13,095) among Bills receivers.

The Bills offense struggled last season, contributing to the team's 5-11 finish.

Buffalo gained 4,122 yards, a franchise low in a 16-game season. The team's six touchdowns rushing, 1,607 yards rushing and 2,515 yards passing were all the second fewest for a 16-game season.
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5366776

This almost assures that Moulds will be released by the Bills.

FillyCheezeSteak

02-28-2006, 06:03 PM

I'm very excited as I heard today that the Lions will be pursuing LeCharles Bentley from the New Orleans Saints. Bentley is a young guy that can play guard or center and is VERY strong. I like him for two reasons, well three. He is a pro-bowler and that is always a good get in Free Agency. Secondly, he can play guard and give us a huge lift or he can play center and get Dominic off the damn field. These are all good reasons to sign him in my opinion.

H1Man

03-01-2006, 05:44 PM

Simms agrees to 1-year deal with Bucs

Quarterback Chris Simms agreed to a one-year contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Wednesday.

The signing comes two days before Simms would have become a restricted free agent and allows the Bucs to keep the quarterback who started the last 10 games in the 2005 season after Brian Griese went down with a knee injury.

Simms, drafted by the Bucs in 2003, won six of his 10 starts and led the team to an NFC South championship. He completed 191-of-313 passes for 2,035 yards, 10 touchdowns and seven interceptions.

In a playoff game against Washington, the 25-year-old Simms set team postseason records by completing 25 passes on 38 attempts.
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5371606

Glenn

03-01-2006, 06:08 PM

If the CBA doesn't get renewed by tomorrow, 13 teams will be over the cap and some big names will be cut to clear room.

The Broncos made their cuts today.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2350136

Broncos cut Pryce, Putzier and Anderson

ESPN.com news services

The Denver Broncos shaved $14.99 million of cap room Wednesday, but it came at a big price for talent.

The Broncos released three starters -- defensive end Trevor Pryce, running back Mike Anderson and tight end Jeb Putzier in moves that pull the team within a couple of millions of the $92 million salary cap.

Pryce had a $10.2 million cap number and his release saves $8.5 million of cap room. There had no been much talk about him adjusting his salary. The same happened to Anderson, who had a $2.565 million salary that he is now not going to receive.

Putzier and Stephen Alexander shared the tight end position, but Alexander ended up starting more games.

Pryce, 30, readjusted his contract in 2005 to remain with the Broncos and appeared in all 16 games in a comeback season in which he performed well. The former Clemson standout, a first-round choice in the 1997 draft, posted 33 tackles, four sacks and three passes defensed in 2005.

A four-time Pro Bowl performer, Pryce had three seasons remaining on his contract, at base salaries of $6.53 million (2006), $7.97 million (2007) and $9 million (2008). The Broncos saved over $8.5 million by releasing the nine-year veteran.

In 121 regular-season games, Pryce, who moved from tackle to end in 2002, had 383 tackles, 64 sacks, nine forced fumbles, four recoveries, two interceptions and 19 pass deflections.

Anderson, 32, was a sixth-round choice in 2000, and the former Utah star made an immediate impression in the league, rushing for 1,487 yards as a rookie. In 2005, he carried 239 times for 1,014 yards and scored 12 touchdowns. For his career, Anderson gained 3,822 yards and scored 36 times on 865 rushes.

A sixth-round choice in 2002, Putzier averaged 14.4 yards on 73 catches the past two seasons. He signed a restricted free agent offer sheet with the New York Jets last spring but the Broncos retained the former Boise State star by matching the deal. But Putzier was not a favorite of coach Mike Shanahan and the club released him Wednesday before a $1.5 million roster bonus came due.

Glenn

03-01-2006, 06:13 PM

Anybody think that Mike Andseron (cut by Denver today) might be a good pickup to backup KJ? Gotta be better than Bryson.

Glenn

03-01-2006, 06:24 PM

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2350202

With negotiations on a new collective bargaining agreement stalled, teams are readying for what one general manager suggests will come to be known as "Bloody Thursday." A number of teams are up against the projected cap limit of $95 million to $96 million for 2006 and the lack of a CBA extension means there are few options for relief. The result is that a number of big-name players will be jettisoned by Thursday, when teams must be in compliance with the spending limit.

The moves have already started, with several teams sending players to the chopping block Wednesday.

• Broncos save almost $15 million: The Broncos shaved $14.99 million of cap room Wednesday, but it came at a big price for talent.

The Broncos released three starters -- defensive end Trevor Pryce, running back Mike Anderson and tight end Jeb Putzier in moves that pull the team within a couple of millions of the $92 million salary cap.

• Panthers release three veterans: The Panthers cleared $4.64 million of cap room Wednesday by releasing three veterans -- running back Stephen Davis, running back Rod Smart and defensive tackle Brentson Buckner.

Davis was expected to be released because of his age and his injuries. His release saved the team $2.8 million. Smart, a good backup running back and solid returner, was a little bit of a surprise. Buckner is one of the team leaders on defense but he's played 13 years and is 34 years old.

• Bills cuts Adams, Milloy: The Bills, who entered Wednesday $2 million under the $92 million salary cap, made their second major cut of the offseason by releasing former Pro Bowl defensive tackle Sam Adams.

Safety Lawyer Milloy and tight end Mark Campbell also were released in moves that saved the Bills an estimated $9.1 million in salary cap space. The team has not determined whether to release veteran receiver Eric Moulds, who rejected the Bills' offer to restructure his contract earlier this week.

• Dolphins release McIntosh: The Dolphins released left tackle Damion McIntosh Wednesday, making their first major cut of the offseason.

The Dolphins held talks with McIntosh and his agent about restructuring his contract, but the sides couldn't reach an agreement. McIntosh's agent said the Dolphins have yet to offer the player a new contract because of limitations of the salary cap if the collective bargaining agreement is not extended.

For more info read Len Pasquerelli's take: http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/columns/story?columnist=pasquarelli_len&id=2348970

H1Man

03-01-2006, 06:25 PM

WTF is up the Broncos?

In 2003, they traded Clinton Portis for Champ Bailey and a draft pick (which turned into Tatum Bell). In 2004, they traded Reuben Droughns to the Cleveland Browns in exchange for Ebenezer Ekuban and Michael Myers. Now, they cut Mike Anderson.

That's 3 years in a row where they traded/cut their leading rusher.

Taymelo

03-02-2006, 08:02 AM

WTF is up the Broncos?

That's 3 years in a row where they traded/cut their leading rusher.

And 3 years in a row that it didn't matter who they threw in there.

They've been doing this since Terrell Davis.

Unlike the Lions, they are smart. They know it isn't about the skill positions, but the O and D lines. They've got such a great run blocking offensive line that they can put anyone back there and be successful. The Lions? They go to the local car wash to pick up linemen for bread crumbs and a bottle of Mad Dog, and waste all their money and draft picks on skill position players that are easily replaceable and entirely worthless without a good line in front of them.

Jethro34

03-02-2006, 08:27 AM

H1Man

03-02-2006, 07:01 PM

Titans pay $1M to keep McNair; Cut Hopkins

The Tennessee Titans decided Thursday to pay a $1 million fee that will keep quarterback Steve McNair with the team this season but allow him to become a free agent after 2006.

The move means the Titans won't have to pay a $50 million option that would have extended McNair's contract through 2009, the quarterback's agent said Thursday. Still, McNair will take up more than a quarter of the team's salary cap space.

The future of the NFL's 2003 co-MVP had been in doubt with the Titans facing pressure to get under the cap by Thursday.

"What this amounts to is they decided to pay $1 million and not add three years to his contract, so this is his last year. At the end of this year, Steve will be a free agent," agent Bus Cook said.

In addition to the deal for McNair, the Titans released left tackle Brad Hopkins, a 13-year veteran, and gave right guard Benji Olsen a new four-year deal to help get under the salary cap.

Even with the deal, Cook said McNair's salary cap number for 2006 will be $23.4 million. The cap is $94.5 million.

McNair, who shared the MVP award with Peyton Manning of Indianapolis three years ago, started 15 games in 2005 and threw for 3,161 yards. He has a won-lost record of 81-59 in his career.

He also is one of only five NFL players to throw for 25,000 yards and run for 3,000 more, along with John Elway, Fran Tarkenton, Steve Young and Randall Cunningham. He currently has 27,141 yards passing in his career.

McNair is one of only two players left on the roster from the team's days as the Houston Oilers. The other was Hopkins, who wasn't surprised when he got the word Wednesday he was being cut.

The Titans came into the week an estimated $18.7 million over the salary cap.

Mark Bartelstein, Hopkins' agent, didn't rule out his client returning to the team that drafted him in the first round in 1993. Hopkins ranks third in team history in games played with 194 and second in starts by an offensive lineman with 188, behind Bruce Matthews.
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5375484

In another cap-related matter, agent Hadley Engelhard confirmed to ESPN.com that tailback Travis Henry has restructured his contract to provide the Titans some cap relief. Henry, 27, missed four games in 2005 because of a violation of the NFL substance abuse policy. In 10 games, but just one start, Henry carried 88 times for 335 yards.

The Titans reworked the contract of linebacker Peter Sirmon. They also cut left tackle Brad Hopkins Wednesday at a savings of $4.6 million. As Thursday began, the Titans were a manageable $4.6 million over the salary cap.

H1Man

03-02-2006, 07:42 PM

Chiefs cut Warfield, Stills, McCleon, Barber

The Chiefs started their salary cap purge Thursday by terminating the contracts of four veteran players: cornerbacks Eric Warfield and Dexter McCleon and linebackers Shawn Barber and Gary Stills.

The moves cleared out $6.3 million, but the Chiefs have more work to do to get under the $94.5 million salary cap. They started the day $18.1 million over the cap, so these moves leave them $11.9 million over.

The Chiefs are in the process of restructuring contracts and considering other releases of veteran players.

Other veterans who could fall under the salary cap knife are guard Will Shields and safeties Jerome Woods and Greg Wesley, but nothing is done at this time.

Stills has been the Chiefs' best special teams player and was voted to the Pro Bowl after the 2003 season.

Warfield, an eight-year veteran, started 10 games at right cornerback last season, after sitting out the first four games of the year for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2351727

Seahawks tell starting CB Dyson he will be released

The Seahawks have informed starting cornerback Andre Dyson that he is going to be released.

Dyson was scheduled to receive a $3 million roster bonus Friday. Instead of giving him the bonus and keeping his 2006 cap number at $4.26 million, the Seahawks released him, leaving Kelly Herndon and Marcus Trufant as the starting cornerbacks.

Dyson's release saved the Seahawks $1.86 million. They were $11.9 million under the cap before making the move.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2351774

H1Man

03-02-2006, 07:51 PM

'Fins release four, including Pro Bowl CB Madison

Forced to slash contracts in order to get under the salary cap for 2006, the Miami Dolphins on Wednesday released four veterans, the most notable of which was four-time Pro Bowl cornerback Sam Madison.

The moves saved the team $14.4 million in cap room, but cost the Dolphins some key contributors, and three members of their secondary. In addition to Madison, the team released fellow cornerback Reggie Howard, safety Tebucky Jones and offensive tackle Damion McIntosh.

The release of Jones, who signed with Miami last spring after he was released by New Orleans, netted the largest savings, of $6.5 million. The Dolphins saved $4.275 million in cap space on McIntosh's contract, $2.625 million on Madison and $1 million on Howard. There is no doubt, however, that the jettisoning of Madison, one of the NFL's premier cover cornerbacks for many seasons, was the deepest cut.

It marks the second spring in a row that Miami has parted with a top cornerback, with the Dolphins having traded Patrick Surtain to Kansas City last year for a second-round draft choice, a move also forced by the team's salary cap overage at the time. For a period of about five seasons, Surtain and Madison formed one of the NFL's elite cornerback tandems.

Madison, 31, said early in the offseason that he would not rework his contract to stay with the team, and conceded that would probably lead to his eventual release. But in recent weeks, Madison indicated that he might be open to readjusting his deal. The two sides were unable to strike an amenable compromise, and Madison was released.

The nine-year veteran, who has 31 career interceptions and 69 passes defensed, will probably generate a healthy market in free agency. Even at his age, Madison is still regarded as a solid cornerback, one who is a terrific presence in the locker room, and teams can never find enough good players at the position. In 138 regular-season appearances, Madison, a former Louisville star selected by Miami in the second round of the 1997 draft, had 354 tackles.

Howard, 28, signed with the Dolphins as an unrestricted free agent in 2004, but never approximated the breakout season he had in Carolina the previous year. The six-year veteran has played in 72 games and has 207 tackles, six interceptions and 22 passes defensed. He could garner some interest around the league as a "nickel" cornerback.

A onetime first-round draft pick of the New England Patriots in 1998, Jones has always been a player with great physical potential, but disappointing production. Jones, 31, has played with the Patriots (1998-2002), Saints (2003-2004) and Dolphins (2005), but rarely made meaningful plays. A big hitter, Jones has been injured for much of his career and has only six career interceptions.

McIntosh played just two seasons in Miami, starting all 16 games at left tackle in 2005, after overcoming a foot injury that slowed him in training camp the previous year. McIntosh is a six-year veteran who played four seasons with the San Diego Chargers before signing with the Dolphins as a free agent in 2004.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2350370

Falcons guarantee Vick bonus, creating cap space

As anticipated, the Atlanta Falcons have guaranteed a $7 million March roster bonus due quarterback Michael Vick, a move that creates about $5.25 million in additional cap space, and which will help the club squeeze under the NFL's spending limit of $94.5 million by the Thursday night deadline.
The contract extension signed by Vick in December 2004 provided the Falcons the right to make the move, which essentially turns the roster bonus into a signing bonus. Most important to the Falcons, it means that the team can prorate the $7 million bonus over four years and reduce its impact on the 2006 cap.

Atlanta performed a similar maneuver last spring with Vick on a $22.5 million roster bonus.

The bookkeeping transaction has no impact on Vick, since he would have received the $7 million whether it was treated as a roster bonus or as a signing bonus. The five-year veteran and Pro Bowl performer is due to earn a 2006 base salary of $1.4 million.

Vick, 25, signed what amounted to a 10-year, $130 million contract, which runs through 2014, late in the 2004 season. But the final season of the contract has already been voided, making the contract a nine-year deal worth approximately $118 million. The contract, which included an initial signing bonus of $7.5 million, features $37 million in guarantees.

Included in those guarantees was the $7 million roster bonus Vick will collect this month.

Even with the additional cap space created by the maneuver with Vick's contract, the Falcons are tight against the cap and will need to make another move or two to be in compliance with the spending limit when the new league years begins Friday at 12:01 a.m. The club has already restructured the contract of tight end Eric Beverly and could rework the deals of other veterans, such as Pro Bowl linebacker Keith Brooking, although that has not yet occurred.

ESPN.com has confirmed that the Falcons on Thursday will release 10-year veteran defensive end Brady Smith, which will save $2.5 million against the salary cap. Smith, 32, was limited to a career-low five appearances in 2005 because of injuries. He underwent neck surgery in July, which forced him to miss training camp and then, after returning sooner than expected, suffered a foot injury that ended his year.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2351421

H1Man

03-05-2006, 10:14 PM

Teams are scrambling to meet the salary cap requirements.

H1Man

03-05-2006, 10:15 PM

Pennington restructures contract, will stay with Jets

Quarterback Chad Pennington, still recovering from rotator cuff surgery that limited him to just three games, will remain with the New York Jets for the 2006 season, ESPN.com has learned.

The six-year veteran agreed to terms Sunday on a restructured contract that provides the team with salary cap relief, removes the Jets from considerable financial exposure, and essentially keeps him from being released. The agreement, which will significantly reduce Pennington's $15 million cap charge for 2006, has not yet been signed, but all principle issues have been resolved.

"Heading into the offseason, I knew that re-working elements of my contract was a possibility," Pennington said on Sunday evening. "That's the business side of the industry and that's what the offseason is for. It was nothing personal and I understand that. Moving forward, I am anxious to return to the playing field and feel very positive about where I am in the [rehabilitation] process."

Under the new agreement, Pennington, who was scheduled to pocket a $3 million roster bonus this month, and earn a $6 million base salary for 2006, will drop his total compensation from $9 million to a guaranteed $3 million. But the contract also provides Pennington the ability to earn back $6 million if he is healthy again and reaches certain predetermined performance levels.

"Our intention all along was to have Chad remain with the Jets and we never wavered from that," general manager Mike Tannenbaum said. "Chad is a courageous and talented leader. Throughout this process, he put the interests of the team ahead of his own, enabling us to reach an agreement on terms beneficial to both parties."

The Jets also announced Sunday that they have released center Kevin Mawae. Mawae, a six-time Pro Bowl selection, played eight seasons in New York.

Meanwhile, the team announced a contract extension for offensive lineman Pete Kendall.

"We are pleased to extend the contract for Pete," Tannenbaum said in a statement released by the team. "In 2005 [Kendall] displayed the versatility that we knew he possessed when he signed with the Jets in 2004. His leadership skills and high level of play provide us flexibility along the interior of the offensive line."

The Jets, who were dealing with a huge cap overage, had originally proposed cutting Pennington back to a base salary of $1 million. Tannenbaum and agent Tom Condon of IMG Football met at the scouting combine in Indianapolis last week and the Jets raised their offer.

Pennington said he hasn't spoken with new Jets head coach Eric Mangini yet about his prospects for keeping the starting job but said, "If they did not think I'd be the starting quarterback, I don't think they'd want to renegotiate at all."

"I think that coach wants me to lead this team if at all possible," he added. "As a coach he has to make the final decision, he has to feel in his heart if he can believe in me and have no doubt I can help our team win. A lot of that has to do with my health. He's played against me, coached against me, defended me. He knows what type of player I am."

Pennington indicated in interviews with the New York media last week that he preferred to remain with the team. If healthy, Pennington will have the chance to regain his starting job. Had he been released, the uncertainty of his physical status certainly would have affected the number of suitors he might have attracted in the free agency market.

Had the Jets released Pennington outright, certainly a consideration at one point, the team would still have been forced to carry a $12 million salary cap charge for 2006, basically because of the seven-year, $64 million contract to which they signed the former NFL passing champion two years ago.

Even with the restructuring, the Jets are still expected to bolster the quarterback position, given the team's uncertainty about Pennington's rehabilitation. New York is expected to either sign a veteran quarterback or perhaps invest a high-round draft choice to acquire one. The Jets have the fourth overall selection in this year's draft.

Pennington, 29, underwent surgery to repair a torn rotator cuff in early October of 2005. It marked his second such surgery in eight months. The former Marshall star has been rehabilitating of late at the IMG Academies in Bradenton, Fla., and expects to start throwing in two weeks. Pennington has said that he feels he will be recovered in time to participate in the Jets' offseason program.

Pennington's second shoulder injury occurred in a Sept. 25 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, a game to which the Jets' starter returned after sustaining the injury. Pennington underwent surgery less than two weeks later. He originally injured his shoulder in November of 2004, played through the pain, and then underwent fairly invasive surgery in February of 2005.

Between the two shoulder surgeries and a broken wrist, Pennington has started just 25 games over the last three seasons. He took over the starting job in 2002, started 12 games that season, and won the league's passing championship with an efficiency rating of 104.2. For his career, Pennington has appeared in 44 games, starting 37 of them, and has completed 767 of 1,174 passes for 8,621 yards, with 55 touchdown passes and 30 interceptions.

Pennington's career passer rating of 92.1 is among the top 20 in league history.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2355638

Raiders cut quarterback Collins in salary-cap move

The Oakland Raiders parted ways with quarterback Kerry Collins in a move to get them below the salary cap by Sunday night's deadline.

By cutting Collins, the Raiders will save $9.2 million against the salary cap once bonuses are factored into the figures.

The Raiders were forced to cut Collins after the NFL and its players' union broke off talks again, failing to agree upon an elevated cap number that would have allowed teams to keep certain high-priced veterans. The team had been waiting for word on negotiations before making a final decision on Collins' future with the organization.

The 33-year-old Collins had a 7-21 record in two years as Oakland's starter and said at the end of the season he was willing to restructure his deal but would not play for "peanuts."

New coach Art Shell said when he was hired last month that he believed Collins could be a "great" quarterback for the Raiders, but the team still had to figure out what it would do with him.

The Raiders already made moves this offseason to reduce their payroll for next season. They released defensive lineman Ted Washington, offensive lineman Ron Stone and defensive back Denard Walker last week. They also declined a $10 million option for 2006 for safety Derrick Gibson. Those moves created more than $18 million in additional cap space for 2006.

Oakland also declined to use a franchise tag on Charles Woodson, who made $10.537 million last season.

The Raiders scored only 51 points, with just six touchdowns, in their final five games and lost their last six overall and eight of nine despite an offense featuring Collins, Randy Moss, LaMont Jordan and Jerry Porter. At 4-12, they finished with one fewer victory than in fired coach Norv Turner's first season a year ago.

Perhaps the most glaring statistic is Oakland's failure to win a division game for the first time since owner Al Davis came aboard in 1963 to coach and eventually own the team. The Raiders went 1-11 against the AFC West during Turner's two seasons.

Collins started the season well, but couldn't maintain any consistency. He completed 302 passes for 3,759 yards -- his most since 2002 with the Giants -- and 20 touchdowns. He also was sacked 39 times and threw 12 interceptions.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2355736

Steelers pare veterans QB Maddox, CB Williams

Nine-year veteran quarterback Tommy Maddox, who resurrected his NFL career with the Pittsburgh Steelers but lost his starting job to then-rookie Ben Roethlisberger in 2004, was released on Friday, as the Super Bowl XL champions continued to make moves to get under the 2006 salary cap.

he Steelers also released 13-year veteran cornerback Willie Williams. The two transactions, which created $1.585 million in additional cap space, had been anticipated since the end of the season.

Out of the game for five seasons (1996-2000), Maddox signed with the Steelers in 2001 as a free agent, following stints in the Arena Football League and the short-lived XFL. He won the starting job a year later and between 2002-2003, started 27 games, including all contests in '03. In those two seasons, he completed 532 of 896 passes for 6,250 yards, with 38 touchdown passes and 33 interceptions.

Maddox, 34, established franchise records for attempts (519), completions (298) and 300-yard games (six) in 2003, and his 3,414 yards were the second most in club history for a single season.

But in the second game of the 2004 season, Maddox suffered an elbow injury against the Baltimore Ravens and was replaced by Roethlisberger, who then put a vise grip on the No. 1 job. Maddox played in just eight games, with five starts, after that. Last year, he dropped to No. 3 on the depth chart behind Roethlisberger and Charlie Batch. He was due a $100,000 roster bonus and a $900,000 base salary for 2006.

The first-round choice of the Denver Broncos in 1992, Maddox, who starred at UCLA, was projected as the eventual successor to John Elway. But he departed Denver long before Elway ever did, as he was released after the 1993 season. Maddox subsequently played for the Rams (1994) and the Giants (1995) before his career spiraled and he was out of the league for five seasons.

While selling insurance, he attempted to revive his career and, after playing in the Arena League and the XFL, winning most valuable player honors in the latter, the Steelers responded to a letter Maddox wrote to all 32 NFL franchises, seeking a tryout.

For his NFL career, Maddox has appeared in 93 games and started 36 of them, completing 686 of 1,200 passes for 8,087 yards, with 48 touchdown passes, 54 interceptions and a 72.4 efficiency rating.

Williams, 35, began his career with the Steelers in 1996, then signed with the Seattle Seahawks as a free agent in 1997. After seven seasons with the Seahawks, he returned to Pittsburgh in 2004.

The former Western Carolina standout started 10 games in 2004, and played well, but was beaten out for the starting job in 2005 by emerging young cornerback Ike Taylor. Williams appeared in just four games in 2005 and was inactive for the final two months of the season. In 188 appearances, he posted 646 tackles, 26 interceptions and 103 passes defensed.

Williams was due a base salary of $1.235 million for 2006.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2352987

H1Man

03-05-2006, 10:22 PM

Aww Fuck. I was hoping that Brooks would get cut so that we could try to sign him.

Bucs, Brooks agree to restructure, extend contract

With the Tampa Bay Bucs facing a twice-extended Sunday deadline for being in compliance with the NFL's spending limit for 2006, nine-time Pro Bowl linebacker Derrick Brooks restructured his contract to open up about $5 million in additional salary cap room.

The reworked deal, confirmed by agent Roosevelt Barnes on Sunday evening, still keeps Brooks well above the minimum salary for 2006. The restructuring also included a four-year contract extension, the details of which were not immediately available.

Brooks, 32, was scheduled to earn $7.75 million in base salary for 2006. His base salaries for the remaining years of his existing contract were $10 million (2007), $11 million (2008) and $12 million (2009). It is not known if those base salaries were affected as part of the restructuring. Brooks carried a salary cap charge of $11.66 million before the restructuring.

While it is unlikely the Bucs would have released Brooks, he made sure the team never faced that difficult decision, and Sunday's deal was the culmination of several days of negotiations. Brooks had declined a year ago to rework his contract as Tampa Bay struggled to get under the cap.

Earlier this offseason, Brooks suggested he would be open to restructuring his contract, if it would help the team and allow him to play his entire career in a Bucs uniform.

In recent years, the Bucs were forced to jettison longtime veterans like defensive tackle Warren Sapp and safety John Lynch to carve out much-needed cap space, and fans reacted negatively to those moves. The Bucs would almost certainly have faced similar criticism had they released Brooks, who has become a fixture in the community and whose charitable endeavors have brought him national recognition.

An 11-year veteran, Brooks, who earned NFL defensive player of the year honors in 2002, is one of the most celebrated linebackers in recent league history, and will be a Hall of Fame candidate when he retires.

The former Florida State star, a first-round choice in the 1995 draft, was named the most valuable player in the Pro Bowl last month after returning an interception for a touchdown.

In 176 games, including 173 starts, Brooks has a franchise-record 1,775 tackles, along with 13½ sacks, 21 interceptions, 21 forced fumbles and four recoveries.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2355737

PS 900th post

H1Man

03-05-2006, 10:27 PM

Bears retain Metcalf with six-year contract extension

Continuing their initiative toward building depth and stability on their offensive line, the Chicago Bears have reached agreement with veteran guard Terrence Metcalf on a six-year contract extension that could be worth as much as $12.5 million.

The extension, which includes a $3.5 million signing bonus, keeps Metcalf off the unrestricted free-agent market. It also means that Chicago has all 22 of its starters from 2005, when the Bears won the NFC North with an 11-5 record, under contract through at least the 2006 season.

"He's a big part of what we do," head coach Lovie Smith said of Metcalf.

Metcalf, 28, will vie with Roberto Garza for the starting job at right guard. Garza recently signed a six-year contract extension similar in value and structure to Metcalf's new deal.

A four-year veteran, Metcalf started the first 12 games in 2005, then sat out three contests with a shoulder injury. He returned for the season finale, but suffered a foot injury. The upcoming competition between Metcalf and Garza, who many around the league regard as a starting-caliber player, figures to be one of the early subplots in training camp.

By retaining Metcalf, a third-round choice in the 2002 draft, the Bears also provided themselves insurance against the possibility that starting left guard Ruben Brown declines quickly. Brown is an 11-year veteran and, at age 34, is nearing the end of his career. In 2004, Metcalf replaced Brown for five games when the latter was injured.

Smith and general manager Jerry Angelo have worked hard to add depth to the offensive line unit. Last week, the Bears signed backup tackle John St. Clair to a three-year contract extension. Before that, the team retained reserve center Lennie Friedman with a new deal.

A former University of Mississippi star, Metcalf, a physical in-line blocker, has appeared in 40 games and has started 20 of them.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2354098

Browns agree to multi-year deal with Droughns

The Cleveland Browns, well under the projected league spending limit and expected to be aggressive from the outset once free agency begins, invested some of their salary cap room in one of their own.

The team on Friday reached agreement with running back Reuben Droughns on a three-year contract extension through 2009. Droughns, who last season became the first Browns player in 20 years to rush for 1,000 yards, was entering the final year of his contract and scheduled to earn a base salary of $1.15 million.

Complete details of the contract were not yet available but it is believed the extension is worth about $12 million in so-called "new money."

Droughns, 27, was acquired by the Browns last March 30 in a trade that sent defensive linemen Michael Myers and Ebenezer Ekuban to the Denver Broncos. He became for Cleveland the workhorse-type back, with a physical inside running style that first-year coach Romeo Crennel favored. Droughns carried a career-high 309 times for 1,232 yards and two touchdowns.

It marked the second straight 1,000-yard season for the sixth-year veteran, who logged just 40 carries for 97 yards in the first four years of his career.

Principally a fullback during those first four seasons, Droughns moved to tailback in 2004 when Denver suffered a spate of injuries at the position. He responded by rushing for 1,240 yards and six touchdowns on 275 carries. But in need of defensive line help, and with plenty of depth at tailback, the Broncos dealt him to the Browns last spring.

The former Oregon Duck missed some of the early conditioning sessions in Cleveland, when he was seeking a contract upgrade, then reported and became not only a productive player on the field but a leader off of it. Browns officials had identified Droughns, even during last season, as a player they hoped to sign to a longer-term contract.

He becomes the third key veteran signed to an extension since last December, joining standout inside linebacker Andra Davis and defensive end Orpheus Roye.

Droughns originally entered the NFL as a third-round choice of the Detroit Lions in the 2000 draft. He spent his entire rookie season on injured reserve because of a shoulder injury suffered in preseason, then was released by the Lions after the 2001 season. He then signed with Denver as a free agent in 2002 and spent three seasons there.

In 72 games, including 38 starts, Droughns has carried 624 times for 2,569 yards and nine touchdowns. He also has 89 receptions for 771 yards and six touchdowns.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2353207

H1Man

03-05-2006, 10:41 PM

Packers re-sign RB Green to one-year deal

The Packers re-signed running back Ahman Green to a one-year deal that is going to be worth between $3 million and $5 million.

It is believed that the contract has a base value of $3 million, along with $2 million worth of incentives.

Green sold new head coach Mike McCarthy on his dedication and hard work by showing up early this off-season to train for the 2006 season. After coming off an injury plagued 2005 season, Green wanted to show management how much he wanted to be a Packer.

The team responded quickly by not letting him hit the free agent market and agreeing to a deal Sunday night.

Green, 29, has been a star for the Packers since coming to them in 2000 in a trade with the Seattle Seahawks. He had five seasons in which he gained more than 1,100 yards, and he's been a leader of the team.

At the recent NFL Scouting Combine, McCarthy spoke about how important it was for Green to be part of the team and he was hoping for a quick signing. The return of Green could play into the decision making of quarterback Brett Favre, who is contemplating retirement.

Without a running game and because of poor blocking on the interior of the offensive line, Favre struggled. The Packers entered the weekend with the most cap room of any team in the league. They spent their first dollars on a player they couldn't afford to lose.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2355826

Alexander, Seahawks agree on eight-year deal

The No. 1 free agent on the open market is now off the market.

FOXSports.com has learned that the Seattle Seahawks have agreed to terms with Pro-Bowl running back Shaun Alexander on a whopping eight-year, $62 million deal that includes in excess a total of $15 million in the first year in bonuses (signing and roster) and salary.

The Alexander deal is not contingent upon a new CBA getting done as the Seahawks have the necessary cap space to make such a move. However, the contract still has to get approved by the NFL front office and Alexander needs to sign the contract.

The league's MVP was wise to take such a deal as the running back market in free agency will likely be much lower than several big-named veterans may think. In addition, Alexander didn't want to leave the Seahawks.

Alexander broke the NFL's single-season touchdown mark this past season, helping push the Seahawks to the NFC title. Now Seattle must turn their attention to Pro-Bowl guard Steve Hutchinson.

It's unclear how the deal is structured with regards to how much cap space this deal takes up in the first year of the new contract. Seattle had a decent amount of salary cap room heading into this free agent period.

Now that Alexander is off the market Edgerrin James, Chester Taylor and Jamal Lewis as well as DeShaun Foster (transition tag) will try to follow up in a very slim market.
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5384774

H1Man

03-05-2006, 11:08 PM

Rams cut Isaac Bruce

Unable to reach agreement on a restructured contract with Isaac Bruce, the Rams cut the wide receiver Sunday night.
http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/sports/stories.nsf/rams/story/B234364527A623D1862571290011BDAE?OpenDocument

Wonder if he will join Martz in Detroit?

Rams release veteran wide receiver

The St. Louis Rams released wide receiver Isaac Bruce Sunday night after failing to reach agreement on a restructured contract, according to a published report.

The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported in Monday's editions that the Rams remained hopeful of reaching an agreement with the four-time Pro Bowl player. Bruce is the longest-tenured Ram, and has been with the team since 1994 - the year before they moved to the Midwest.

"We do want Isaac to remain a Ram," Rams president of football operations Jay Zygmunt told the newspaper. "We're still hopeful that we can get something done in the near future."

Team spokesman Duane Lewis told The Associated Press he was unaware the move had been made official.

Bruce had a salary cap figure of $10 million for next season and had been due to receive a $1.5 million roster bonus Monday, the first day of the free agency period.

The Post-Dispatch reported that Bruce rejected a three-year, $9 million extension.

"We've looked at this situation the last several days and we weren't able to come to an agreement," said Jimmy Sexton, Bruce's agent. "We'll keep working on it in the next several days and see if we can work something out."

Bruce is the Rams' career leader in receptions (813), receiving yards (12,278) and receiving touchdowns (77). He also caught the game-winning touchdown pass in the Rams' lone Super Bowl victory after the 2000 season.

Last season, Bruce missed five games with a dislocated toe and had 36 receptions for 525 yards.
http://www.dfw.com/mld/dfw/sports/14026763.htm

Edit: Added a new link to the story.

Anthony

03-05-2006, 11:14 PM

Damn thats big.

Raiders cut quarterback Collins in salary-cap move

[smilie=funnyguy2.g: [smilie=hammertime.: [smilie=drunkdude.g: [smilie=jackson.gif]

flipscrackers

03-05-2006, 11:49 PM

If all else fails, the Raiders could always try to convince Todd Marinovich to make a comeback attempt...

H1Man

03-06-2006, 01:35 AM

Arrington pays 'Skins to become free agent

LaVar Arrington will become a free agent after agreeing Sunday night to pay the Washington Redskins over $4 million in cash to get out of his contract with the team. As part of the deal, the Redskins have placed Arrington on waivers.

A team source said that the move would have been made irrespective of any delay in the waiver deadline Sunday evening.

Over the last few days, the Redskins have asked several veterans to restructure their contracts so that the team could get under the salary cap. Arrington was the only Redskins player who refused to rework his deal, The Associated Press reported.

Arrington had a $12.045 million cap number and was due a $6.5 million roster bonus. By taking the money, the Redskins will save approximately $4.2 million with his release. They entered Sunday $17.7 million over the salary cap.

In January, the NFL Players Association filed a formal complaint seeking disciplinary action against Carl Poston, Arrington's agent, for "neglect" in negotiating Arrington's contract near the end of the 2003 season, union and league sources told ESPN's Chris Mortensen. The "neglect" had to do with Arrington's $6.5 million bonus.

Arrington did not see much playing time early in the 2005 season as he worked his way back from offseason knee surgery. The former Penn State standout became disgruntled over his diminished role, though it is unclear whether those feelings have played a part in the current negotiations. The three-time Pro Bowl linebacker regained his starting job against Philadelphia on Nov. 6.

Arrington played in 11 regular season games for Washington in 2005, recording 47 tackles. He also played in the team's two postseason games, and had 12 tackles.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2355921

Black Dynamite

03-06-2006, 04:55 AM

Damn thats big.

Raiders cut quarterback Collins in salary-cap move

[smilie=funnyguy2.g: [smilie=hammertime.: [smilie=drunkdude.g: [smilie=jackson.gif]
Ummm throw away the party favors. April Fools came early this year. [smilie=angryfire.g: [smilie=angryfire.g: [smilie=angryfire.g: [smilie=angryfire.g: [smilie=angry.gif] [smilie=angry.gif] [smilie=angry.gif] [smilie=angry.gif] [smilie=angry.gif] [smilie=angry.gif] [smilie=angryfire.g: [smilie=angryfire.g: [smilie=angryfire.g: [smilie=404.gif] [smilie=404.gif] [smilie=404.gif] [smilie=404.gif] [smilie=404.gif] [smilie=404.gif] [smilie=404.gif] [smilie=404.gif] [smilie=404.gif] [smilie=404.gif] [smilie=404.gif] [smilie=404.gif] [smilie=404.gif] [smilie=404.gif] [smilie=404.gif] [smilie=404.gif] [smilie=404.gif]

Raiders avoid cutting Collins with CBA extension
ESPN.com news services
click this

ALAMEDA, Calif. -- The Oakland Raiders had all but parted ways with Kerry Collins on Sunday night until the NFL bought them some time to reconsider the quarterback's future with the club.

Kerry Collins
Quarterback
Oakland Raiders

Profile
2005 SEASON STATISTICS
Att Comp Yds TD Int Rat
565 302 3498 20 12 77.3

The league and union surprisingly agreed to postpone free agency until Thursday to give owners a chance to consider the union's latest proposal during a meeting Tuesday in Dallas. Talks broke off earlier in the day, leaving veterans such as Collins in danger of becoming salary-cap casualties before midnight Monday, when free agency was supposed to begin.

Without Collins, the Raiders would save $9.2 million against the salary cap once bonuses are factored into the figures. Teams can rescind waivers on any player released Sunday if they so choose.

The Raiders thought they would be forced to let Collins go after the NFL and its union broke off talks earlier in the day, failing to agree upon an elevated cap number that would have allowed teams to keep certain high-priced veterans.

The team had been waiting for word on negotiations before making a final decision on Collins' future with the organization.

The 33-year-old Collins had a 7-21 record in two years as Oakland's starter and said at the end of the season he was willing to restructure his deal but would not play for "peanuts."

New coach Art Shell said when he was hired last month that he believed Collins could be a "great" quarterback for the Raiders, but the team still had to figure out what it would do with him.

The Raiders already made moves this offseason to reduce their payroll for next season. They released defensive lineman Ted Washington, offensive lineman Ron Stone and defensive back Denard Walker last week. They also declined a $10 million option for 2006 for safety Derrick Gibson. Those moves created more than $18 million in additional cap space for 2006.

Oakland also declined to use a franchise tag on Charles Woodson, who made $10.537 million last season.

The Raiders scored only 51 points, with just six touchdowns, in their final five games and lost their last six overall and eight of nine despite an offense featuring Collins, Randy Moss, LaMont Jordan and Jerry Porter. At 4-12, they finished with one fewer victory than in fired coach Norv Turner's first season a year ago.

Perhaps the most glaring statistic is Oakland's failure to win a division game for the first time since owner Al Davis came aboard in 1963 to coach and eventually own the team. The Raiders went 1-11 against the AFC West during Turner's two seasons.

Collins started the season well, but couldn't maintain any consistency. He completed 302 passes for 3,759 yards -- his most since 2002 with the Giants -- and 20 touchdowns. He also was sacked 39 times and threw 12 interceptions.

Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.

You FUCKED UP THE PARTY NFL ~throwing away the party favors~
DAMN YOU CBA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! DAMN YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[smilie=404.gif] [smilie=404.gif] [smilie=404.gif] [smilie=angryfire.g: [smilie=angryfire.g:
http://www.thezenroom.com/images/DamnYou.jpg

H1Man

03-06-2006, 05:46 AM

Bengals make offers to four restricted FAs

eceiver Kelley Washington and three other restricted free agents received one-year contract offers from the Cincinnati Bengals, giving the team control over whether they stay or go.

Receiver Kevin Walter, fullback Jeremi Johnson and guard Scott Kooistra also were tendered contracts, a move that allows the Bengals to match any offer they might receive from another team.

If the Bengals decide not to match an offer, they would receive a draft pick from the other team as compensation. Players also are free to accept the Bengals' one-year offers or negotiate a multi-year deal.

Washington fell behind rookie Chris Henry for the No. 3 receiving job last season. Washington was inactive for nine of the 16 regular-season games and had only 10 catches for 101 yards and a touchdown.

Henry faces marijuana possession charges in northern Kentucky and felony gun charges in Orlando, Fla., clouding his future with the team.
http://www.nfl.com/teams/story/CIN/9281643

Darth Thanatos

03-06-2006, 01:03 PM

Arrington and Bruce were cut.

YES! :funnyguy:

WTFchris

03-06-2006, 01:16 PM

Bruce is too old IMO, unless he comes here VERY cheap. We have too much money in WR's already. Unless Martz plans on using Mike at TE, then we could use a vet WR like Bruce.

Hermy

03-06-2006, 02:21 PM

Darth Thanatos

03-06-2006, 02:37 PM

Bruce is too old IMO, unless he comes here VERY cheap. We have too much money in WR's already. Unless Martz plans on using Mike at TE, then we could use a vet WR like Bruce.

I think he turned down a 2 year 6mil restructure from STL, so cheap he will not be.

AAAAAAAAAAAAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

*gains breath*

AAAAAAAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

Is this guy fucking crazy? That is the best offer he will receive at this point in his career. He's not that great anymore so teams won't be on their hands and knees begging him to sign with them. Although I wouldn't be shocked if a team like San Fran or Arizona offered him a nice contract since they need a veteran receiver.

Bruce = Sprewell

Anthony

03-06-2006, 03:11 PM

MOLA1

03-06-2006, 03:22 PM

Darth Thanatos

03-06-2006, 03:46 PM

What's wrong with Collins? With an injured Moss, disappointing Porter, an inconsistent running back, and a terrible offensive scheme.........he still put up 3500 yards and 20 TDs. Not bad.

Black Dynamite

03-06-2006, 03:53 PM

What's wrong with Collins? With an injured Moss, disappointing Porter, an inconsistent running back, and a terrible offensive scheme.........he still put up 3500 yards and 20 TDs. Not bad.
You obviously didnt see him play. Fluff numbers.

Dude got most of that in the early part of the year. He sucked bad and got benched midseason for his weakness. The only reason he got his job back was because Tuiasosopo looked more lost than a headless chicken. Anyone whose seen the raiders play consistently knows how pointless a QB he was.

And for the record Moss got injured because Collins dumb ass hung him out to dry of a pass over the middle.

Black Dynamite

03-06-2006, 04:05 PM

Kerry can really throw the deep ball. With him throwing to Moss,
you'll have an amazing season!!!! Cheer up Anthony!!!!

[smilie=laugh3.gif] [smilie=laugh4.gif] [smilie=laugh2.gif] [smilie=nice.gif] [smilie=rofl3.gif] [smilie=rofl2.gif] [smilie=rotfl.gif][smilie=grin.gif] [smilie=hair.gif] [smilie=mickey.gif] [smilie=mellow.gif]
[smilie=angryfire.g: [smilie=angryfire.g: May Scott Mitchell return from the grave to start for the lions for 12 staught seasons. I put a hex on you lions fans to a color purple level.

Anthony

03-06-2006, 04:05 PM

Yeah, Gutz beat me to it. And tward the end of the season, he never even looked twice at Randy Moss, the best reciver in the NFL.

I thought after a rocky start, Jordan was solid, so I dont know what the fuck you're talking about GWB. And Porter, IMO, did as well as a #2 could in that dissfunctional offense. Problem lies with Collins. Garbage. Pure Garbage.

Darth Thanatos

03-06-2006, 04:58 PM

Black Dynamite

03-06-2006, 05:19 PM

Yeah, Gutz beat me to it. And tward the end of the season, he never even looked twice at Randy Moss, the best reciver in the NFL.

Last 4 games: 15 catches, 234 yard, 3 TDs

Moss had problems staying healthy towards the end of last season, but he still put up very respectable numbers.

I thought after a rocky start, Jordan was solid, so I dont know what the fuck you're talking about GWB. And Porter, IMO, did as well as a #2 could in that dissfunctional offense. Problem lies with Collins. Garbage. Pure Garbage.

Lamont Jordan's yards by game: 70, 59, 19, 126, 32, 122, 67, 93, 48, 52, 97, 55, 49, 132

I'm sorry, but that's not solid numbers for a running back. He had five great games and the rest were crap, very inconsistent.

And looking at Porter's numbers, he was the same as last year so I'll take my criticsm back. Regardless, Collins gets a lot of flack that he doesn't deserve. Most of that flack belongs to the running game and the O-Line.
Once again you've proven that you haven't seen the games. Check the amount of carries he got in the low yardage games. The commitment to the run was a problem all year. run it a few times then go all passes in the second half. Lamont Jordan was only legitimately stuffed in maybe two games(the eagles game for sure). also take a look at our record when he gets atleast 20 carries regardless of yardage(4-2) vs our record otherwise (0-10).

Our offense threw the ball too much and Collins was a shitty qb for more than half the season. Throwing for yardage isnt a problem when you're throwing all the time. and thanks to Moss being good enough to get a hand on every pass, he was able to avoid INT's for the first half of the season. Soon as Moss went down and was 100 percent, Collins got back to his old ways throwing atleast 10 int's in the second half of the season.

I dont want a qb who aint shit when Moss is 80-85 percent healthy, let alone out for the game.

Everyone whose seen atleast 50 percent of raiders games this season know how irrelevent Collins is. 53% on the season passing is shitty. No matter how many yards you got out of it. And it would've been lower if it wasnt for Moss.

For retrospect, Joey harrington had damn near no receivers and he threw for 57 percent completion percentage. Collins cant even throw an out pass w/o it sailing out of bounds. all he can do is stand there in the pocket, throw it deep, or get sacked for waiting all day statue style. And even his deep ball fell off later in the season. The cat is useless to us.

I say let baltimore have him being they want him.

Collins gets a lot of flack that he doesn't deserve. Most of that flack belongs to the running game and the O-Line

The o-line was far from great granted. But blocking for a QB taking a 12 step drop with no mobility whatsoever waiting for a deep pass to up, all while not checking down his receivers isnt a walk in the park. And based on that to further state my point, because of the line falling off it makes more sense to get a qb whose atleast a lil' mobile. Harrington is Michael Vick Compared to collins on moving in and out of the pocket..

Last 4 games: 15 catches, 234 yard, 3 TDs

Thats pretty shitty for 4 games for games for Moss or any go to receiver. You grading him on a scotty vines level?

H1Man

03-06-2006, 07:29 PM

Collins wasn't anything special last season but he isn't as bad as people make him out to be.

But the biggest problem the Raiders had last season was coaching IMO. With Moss, Porter and Jordan that offense should have been explosive instead it was dysfunctional and lacked a direction.

H1Man

03-06-2006, 11:10 PM

Rams sign Glover to three-year contract

The St. Louis Rams signed defensive tackle La'Roi Glover on Monday, inking the six-time Pro Bowl selection who was released by Dallas last week to a three-year deal.

The 31-year-old Glover made the Pro Bowl last season and finished with 26 tackles and three sacks. He has 71 1/2 career sacks, second all-time among defensive tackles behind Warren Sapp's 84 1/2.

Glover, who had 21 1/2 sacks in four seasons with the Cowboys, was released on Thursday.

The Rams need help on the interior line with Ryan Pickett and Damione Lewis both unrestricted free agents.
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5387018

Steelers cut Stuvaints, Logan

Steelers safeties Mike Logan and Russell Stuvaints were released Monday in moves designed to get the Super Bowl champions under the salary cap.

Pittsburgh cut backup quarterback Tommy Maddox and cornerback Willie Williams last week.

Logan recently needed knee surgery stemming from a Super Bowl injury and is likely to re-sign with the Steelers. By releasing him, the Steelers temporarily cleared about $1 million in salary cap room.

The Steelers are expected to re-sign Logan not only because they face losing safety Chris Hope as a free agent, but to avoid facing a grievance for releasing an injured player.

Stuvaints spent all or part of the last three seasons with the Steelers. He was placed on the injured reserve list Nov. 22 with a hamstring injury. He would have counted $230,000 against the cap next season.
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5386908

H1Man

03-06-2006, 11:11 PM

Niners re-sign LB Derek Smith, others

Linebacker Derek Smith re-signed with the San Francisco 49ers on Monday, staying with the club he has led in tackles for five straight seasons.

Smith has been the 49ers' defensive leader since signing with the club as a free agent from Washington before the 2001 season. He made at least 100 tackles in each of his nine NFL seasons, including 163 last season according to team statistics.

With the likely departures of linebackers Julian Peterson and Andre Carter in free agency, Smith's return was particularly important to coach Mike Nolan, who coached Smith for three seasons with the Redskins.

The 49ers also re-signed fullback Chris Hetherington and backup quarterback Jesse Palmer. Hetherington, a 10-year veteran, became the 49ers' starting fullback last season, while former Giants backup Palmer was San Francisco's third quarterback for three games last season.

Nolan also completed his coaching staff by hiring Pep Hamilton as their quarterbacks coach and offensive assistant. Hamilton spent the last three seasons on the Jets' coaching staff.
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5387176

H1Man

03-06-2006, 11:37 PM

Colts re-work Manning, Harrison deals to stay under cap

While the NFL and players' union spent the weekend trying to extend their labor agreement, the Indianapolis Colts occupied their time with bookkeeping measures that enabled them to get under the league's potential $94.5 million salary cap.

The team restructured the contracts of quarterback Peyton Manning and wide receiver Marvin Harrison, creating approximately $12.5 million in cap savings. Manning provided about $5 million and Harrison approximately $7.5 million in cap relief, according to a person with knowledge of the situation.

Had the Colts not restructured those contracts, they would have faced the task of cutting players to be in compliance with the salary cap if a new contract is not eventually worked out. Late Sunday the league and the players' union agreed to delay the start of the free agent period another 72 hours to give the sides more time to try to reach an agreement.

The Colts faced the possibility of being nearly $10 million over the cap last week after special master Stephen Burbank, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania Law School, ruled they could not restructure the contracts of Manning and Harrison to convert roster bonuses into signing bonuses. Burbank ruled the restructuring violated provisions that go into effect without an extension to the collection bargaining agreement.
The team considered seeking a temporary injunction to Burbank's ruling. Instead, it worked with agent Tom Condon, who represents both players, and found a way that did not violate league rules to lower each player's salary cap number.

The source declined to elaborate on the nature of the changes. The result is that Manning's $17.776 million cap number was lowered to about $12.5 million and Harrison's $14.4 million number was sliced to approximately $6.9 million.
http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060306/SPORTS03/603060382/1100

H1Man

03-06-2006, 11:42 PM

Dolphins cut 12-time Pro Bowl linebacker Seau

Junior Seau was released by the Miami Dolphins on Monday, saving the team $2.92 million against the salary cap by parting ways with the 12-time Pro Bowl player.

The Dolphins also waived tight end Lorenzo Diamond.

Because of the 37-year-old Seau's hefty contract, his release had been expected. He missed 17 games the past two years due to injury, finishing both seasons on injured reserve, and an Achilles tendon injury limited him to seven games in 2005.

"Ideally, we would like to keep many of those players on our roster, but we are simply not able to do that," coach Nick Saban said.

Seau, a 16-year veteran, spent the past three seasons with Miami after being acquired from San Diego.

Seau has said he wants to play this year, even if it's not with Miami. His agent, Marvin Demoff, didn't return calls seeking comment.

Diamond, a two-year veteran, played in every game as a reserve last season and caught eight passes.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2357050

Hovan, Bucs agree to five-year, $17.5M contract

Having spent the 2005 season resurrecting his career, Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Chris Hovan can now spend some of his new earnings pumping up his checking account.

The six-year veteran, who signed with the Bucs for the minimum base salary of $540,000 in 2005 and who easily outplayed his contract, has agreed to a five-year extension worth $17.5 million. The deal, which cannot be officially signed until after the start of the new league year, will keep Hovan off the unrestricted free-agent market.

The deal culminates quite a career reversal for Hovan, a former first-round pick of the Minnesota Vikings who was rescued by the Bucs from the NFL scrap heap last spring. In a terrific comeback season, Hovan started all 16 games at nose tackle, led all Tampa Bay defensive linemen with 64 tackles and anchored the interior of a unit that statistically ranked No. 1 in the league.

Hovan, 27, was especially effective against the run, and the Bucs were No. 6 in that category. Tampa Bay officials had said toward the end of the year that retaining Hovan was an offseason priority.

The 25th overall selection in the 2000 draft, Hovan was an immediate starter for the Vikings and played at a high level for the first three seasons of his career. But his production slipped, he fell out of favor with the Minnesota coaching staff his final two years with the club and his playing time was reduced. After netting 11½ sacks combined in 2001-02, Hovan totaled just 3½ the following two seasons.

Minnesota made no attempt to re-sign him as a free agent last year.

In his first season with the Bucs, however, Hovan made a big difference in the performance of the Tampa Bay defensive front. Several defensive teammates, including end Simeon Rice and linebacker Derrick Brooks, cited Hovan's presence as a factor in the improved performance of the front seven.

A former Boston College standout, Hovan has played in 93 games and started 86 of them. He has 307 tackles, 17 sacks, two forced fumbles and six recoveries
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2356629

Jethro34

03-07-2006, 10:46 AM

Black Dynamite

03-07-2006, 10:59 AM

I'm giving my support to those defending Jordan.

1,000 yards rushing (15th in the league) with 9 TD's (tied for 10th) is decent, above average.
He did get a lot of carries based on the number, 13th in the league in carries. Fact is, opposing defenses knew Collins sucked and they said, we'll stop the run and make your sorry butt throw to our DB's. Thus the low yards per carry.
But I had Jordan on my fantasy team, so I was very attentive of what he was doing.
First, don't underestimate his 70 catches, tied for 25th in the NFL, and 9 more than the next most by any RB, which was Brian Westbrook.
1,600 total yards and 11 TD when you put the rushing and receiving together.
Now consider the fact that Oakland was so bad early on that they were often passing on every down in the 4th quarter trying to get back into games.
Finally, consider the fact that these statistics were accumulated over the course of 14 games, and you can see that his average total yards of 113.4 per game and 11 TD in 14 games is certainly enough evidence to put him among the top dozen backs in the game and remove him from the list of excuses for why Kerry Collins sucks.

Finally someone else who paid attention to jordan's whole season besides me and Anthony. Thank goodness for fantasy football.

Black Dynamite

03-07-2006, 10:29 PM

~article deleted~

H1Man

03-08-2006, 03:23 AM

Did you really expect them to keep him after the first cut?

H1Man

03-08-2006, 03:26 AM

Broncos keep DE Brown with extension through 2009

The Denver Broncos signed defensive end Courtney Brown to a contract extension through the 2009 season on Tuesday.

Brown, 28, joined Denver as a free agent last year after five seasons with the Cleveland Browns.

With Denver, he had 38 tackles, 30 of them solo, with two sacks, two fumble recoveries and one pass breakup in 13 regular-season starts.

In 61 career games, he has 264 tackles (184 solo), 19 sacks and 22 pass breakups. He has six forced fumbles, seven fumble recoveries and one blocked field goal.

"Courtney came to our team last season and helped solidify a defensive front that clearly became a strength of our football team," Broncos general manager Ted Sundquist said. "He proved to be an outstanding addition to the Broncos both on and off the field, and I'm excited that he will continue to be a key component of our defense and help us accomplish our goal of winning another World Championship."
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2358166

Browns sign Chandler to compete for kicking job

Adding a veteran leg for training camp, and perhaps some nominal competition for incumbent placement specialist Phil Dawson, the Cleveland Browns on Tuesday afternoon signed itinerant kicker Jeff Chandler to a one-year contract.

Chandler, 26, joins his seventh team on a deal that likely includes a minimum base salary.

Despite being around the league since 2002, and possessing a strong leg, Chandler has only appeared in 13 games and scored 92 points. The former University of Florida standout will provide some relief in camp for Dawson, but will have a difficult time unseating the seven-year veteran.

A fourth-round pick of San Francisco in the 2002 draft, Chandler kicked in six games for the 49ers as a rookie and converted eight of 12 field goal attempts and all 14 extra point tries. But his inconsistency on long kicks, a problem that has plagued him most of his professional career, forced the 49ers to release Chandler in October of that season.

In addition two stints with the 49ers, Chandler has been on rosters in Jacksonville, St. Louis, Washington, Carolina and Miami. He has converted 19 of 27 field goals and all but one of his 36 extra point tries. But on field goal attempts beyond 30 yards, Chandler has missed on eight of 15. Beyond placement kicks, he has averaged 60.2 yards on 59 kickoffs. Chandler left Florida as the leading scorer in Gators history.

Dawson struggled in camp last summer and drew some criticism from rookie coach Romeo Crennel, but rebounded to enjoy an exemplary season. He made 27 of 29 field goals and his 93.1 percent conversion rate was the NFL's second best. Dawson scored 100 points for the third time in his career.

With 135 conversions in 161 career attempts, Dawson ranks among the top 10 kickers in league history in percentage of field goals converted.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2358446

H1Man

03-08-2006, 03:26 AM

Cowboys sign two WRs to extensions

The Dallas Cowboys signed receivers Terrance Copper and Patrick Crayton to one-year contract extensions Tuesday.

Copper and Crayton, both going into their third seasons, signed $385,000 tenders for 2006.

Crayton missed five games last season because of an ankle injury. He finished with 22 catches for 341 yards and two touchdowns, and returned 23 punts for a 7.2 average.

Copper played in all 16 games last season, mostly on special teams. He caught one pass for 5 yards.
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5390146

Black Dynamite

03-08-2006, 03:32 AM

Did you really expect them to keep him after the first cut?
No i dont want them to keep him. but the article is false. It has the wrong date on it. Yahoo is a bitch for that.

H1Man

03-08-2006, 03:54 PM

Texans begin O-line makeover by keeping McKinney

Arguably the most consistent performer on what has inarguably been the NFL's most porous offensive line over the last four seasons, Houston Texans guard Steve McKinney has agreed to a contract extension that will keep him with the team through the 2009 campaign.

McKinney, 30, will sign a new four-year contract worth about $9 million, a deal that includes a signing bonus of $2 million. In essence, the contract represents a three-year extension, since McKinney was signed through the 2006 season. But by replacing the final year of the existing deal, Houston created $2.2 million in salary cap room for 2006.

Under terms of the old contract, McKinney was scheduled to earn a base salary of $3.9 million in 2006.

Retaining a key starter provides the Texans and rookie head coach Gary Kubiak a good start toward rebuilding a unit that has surrendered a league-worst 229 sacks over the last four years. McKinney almost certainly will retain his starting job under the new coaching staff, although the Texans offensive line figures to undergo a major overhaul.

"I can't tell you how much it means to a new staff to have a veteran like Steve," Kubiak told the Houston Chronicle. "We watched film of every play last season, and he just played so darn hard on all of them. Steve means a lot to what we hope to accomplish this season."

An eight-year veteran, McKinney switched to guard in 2006 after having played center during his first three years with the Texans. The former Texas A&M standout began his NFL career as a guard with the Indianapolis Colts. He moved to center in 2002 when Houston acquired him as the franchise's first unrestricted free agent.

The durable McKinney, who was chosen by the Colts in the fourth round of the 1998 draft, has missed just four games in his career. He has never missed a game during his Texans tenure.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2359340

H1Man

03-08-2006, 07:48 PM

Eagles sign Barber to one-year deal

Since Shawn Barber left Philadelphia three years ago, the Eagles have tried three players at weakside linebacker.

Now they're going back to Barber.

Less than a week after Kansas City cut him for financial reasons, the 31-year-old Barber signed a one-year deal with the Eagles on Wednesday. Terms of the contract weren't immediately known. Philadelphia also re-signed defensive end Juqua Thomas to a one-year contract.

"I wasn't really interested in going to a new situation," Barber said. "I didn't want to learn a new defense and go through a transition of getting acquainted with a whole new team. Getting the opportunity to be reunited with the guys here, I couldn't pass it up."

Barber upgrades a mediocre linebacker corps that included Keith Adams at the weakside position and Dhani Jones at the strongside spot. Middle linebacker Jeremiah Trotter went to his fourth Pro Bowl, but Adams and Jones combined for one interception, one forced fumbled, no sacks and no fumble recoveries last season.

The 6-foot-2, 240-pound Barber is coming off two injury-plagued seasons in which he played a total of 11 games for the Chiefs. He tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee in November 2004 and played in three games last year.

Barber said he's healthy now and will be ready to practice "full bore" at the first minicamp after the NFL draft.

A tenacious player and hard-hitter, Barber started every game in his only season with the Eagles in 2002 and finished with 119 tackles, three fumble recoveries, two interceptions, one forced fumble and one sack.

He signed a seven-year, $30 million contract with Kansas City in 2003 and had 141 tackles, five sacks, two forced fumbles and one interception that year.

"Once you're part of this organization, part of this locker room, you can get drawn away by money, but the majority of guys, in their heart, if you ask them where they prefer to play, it's here," Barber said.

Barber was originally a fourth-round draft pick by Washington in 1998. He had a career-best 148 tackles with the Redskins in 1999.

Barber joined the Eagles after sitting out most of the 2001 season with a torn ACL in his right knee. Philadelphia used Nate Wayne, Mark Simoneau and Adams at weakside linebacker since Barber left. Adams will become an unrestricted free agent.

Thomas played in 16 games with the Eagles last season primarily as a backup. He spent his first four seasons with Tennessee.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2360113[/quote]

Glenn

03-09-2006, 02:05 PM

Willie McGinest now a free agent

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2360784

H1Man

03-10-2006, 05:50 PM

Giants add veteran corner Madison

Addressing one of their biggest offseason needs even before the free agent signing period officially commenced, the New York Giants on Friday reached agreement with former Miami Dolphins cornerback Sam Madison on a four-year contract.

The deal, which has been in the works for several days, is worth $7.4 million. It includes a signing bonus of $2 million and base salaries of $900,000 (for 2006), $1.2 million (2007), $1.5 million (2008) and $1.8 million (2009). There is also an annual incentive of $250,000 for four or more interceptions.

Released by the Dolphins last week for salary cap reasons, Madison visited with Giants officials early this week, and the two sides then opened negotiations. Agent Drew Rosenhaus declined to comment on the deal, but this marks the second season in a row in which he moved one of his high-profile free agent clients to the Giants to help bolster the defense.

Last spring, Rosenhaus negotiated the contract that sent standout middle linebacker Antonio Pierce to New York. He also signed wide receiver Plaxico Burress to a contract with the Giants in 2005.

New York coaches and team officials obviously targeted Madison, upon his release, as a veteran player still capable of producing at a position that figures to undergo an overhaul this offseason. Former first-round pick Will Allen, a starter since his 2001 rookie season with the Giants, is an unrestricted free agent and is not expected to return. His longtime starting partner, Will Peterson, missed all but two games in 2005 with a serious back problem, and his future remains uncertain.

The Giants feel that second-year pro Corey Webster, a second-round choice in '05, has the skills to emerge as a starter in 2006 and youngster Curtis DeLoatch still possesses great potential. But in adding Madison, the Giants have provided themselves with stability and veteran maturity, and acquired a proven player who has always been an excellent tutor to younger cornerbacks.

Since the end of the season, it had been speculated that the Dolphins would part ways with Madison, 31, for cap reasons. Madison said early in the offseason that he would not rework his contract to stay with the team, and conceded that would probably lead to his eventual release. But in later weeks, Madison indicated he might be open to readjusting his deal. The two sides were unable, though, to strike a compromise.

It marked the second spring in a row that Miami parted with a top cornerback, with the Dolphins having traded Madison's longtime partner, Patrick Surtain to Kansas City last year for a second-round draft choice, a move also forced by the team's salary cap overage at the time. For a period of about five seasons, Surtain and Madison formed one of the NFL's elite cornerback tandems.

A nine-year veteran and four-time Pro Bowl player, Madison has 31 career interceptions and 69 passes defensed. In 138 regular-season appearances, Madison, a former Louisville star selected by Miami in the second round of the 1997 draft, had 354 tackles.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2362731

Veteran WR Bruce to return to Rams

Just five days after being released by the St. Louis Rams for salary cap reasons, four-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Isaac Bruce rejoined the only team for which he has every played.

Bruce has agreed to a new, three-year deal worth $15 million, which the team announced Friday afternoon.

The contract will pay Bruce $6 million in 2006. Under his previous contract, he would have earned $8.1 million total from a roster bonus ($1.5 million), base salary ($6.5 million) and workout bonus ($100,000).

Although he received immediate interest from several teams after his release on Sunday night, and could have signed elsewhere because he did not have to wait until the start of the free agency period, Bruce's aim was to return to the Rams, if possible, to complete his career. One of the team's most interested in Bruce was the Detroit Lions, where former Rams head coach Mike Martz is the new offensive coordinator.

But Rams officials maintained a dialogue with Bruce and agent Jimmy Sexton, and the wide receiver met with team officials, including first-year coach Scott Linehan, on Thursday to discuss his future. Linehan reiterated to Bruce what he had said publicly, that he projected him as still fitting into the team's plans, and wanted him to return if salary terms could be agreed upon.

"I'm excited that we have worked out a deal," Linehan said. "I'd been optimistic all along that we would be able to get this done."

Negotiations with the Rams were aimed at meeting both sides' priorities. Bruce never visited other teams and there were no substantive contract talks with other franchises. Bruce, 33, represents the final link to the Rams' days in Los Angeles, having been the club's second-round draft choice in 1994. He is one of the most popular players in the St. Louis community and highly regarded by club officials and teammates.

The 12-year veteran has appeared in 167 games and started in 154 of them. He has 813 receptions for 12,278 yards and 77 touchdowns. Six times, Bruce has posted 75 or more catches in a season and he has seven seasons of 1,000 yards or more. His 73-yard touchdown reception provided St. Louis the winning score in its Super Bowl XXXIV victory over the Tennessee Titans.

Limited to 11 appearances in 2005 because of injuries, Bruce had 36 catches and 525 yards, his lowest totals since 1998, when a severe hamstring injury forced him to miss 11 contests. But the Rams and other teams feel Bruce has not slipped much physically and still has some productive years remaining.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2362534

H1Man

03-10-2006, 05:51 PM

Vikings lift transition tag on cornerback Williams

The Minnesota Vikings lifted the transition designation on cornerback Brian Williams after a recalculation of the one-year tender based on changes in the new collective bargaining agreement.

The new CBA calls for the values of the previous year's franchise and transition tenders to be used in calculating this year's tenders. Because the tenders were so high last year for cornerbacks -- $8.816 million for a franchised cornerback and $6.938 for a transitioned cornerback -- the tenders for this year increased considerably from what teams expected ($5.89 million for a franchised cornerback and $4.77 million for a transitioned cornerback).

It's not clear exactly what Williams' tender would have been, but Nate Clements, who was franchised by the Bills, will have his tender increased by $1.3 million, to roughly $7.22 million, by the recalculation.

Williams, a nickel cornerback, would have made significantly more than the one-year tender of $4.77 million he was initially offered. After getting those new numbers, the Vikings decided he was too expensive and pulled the tender, making him a free agent.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2362994

Bengals release DE Clemons

The Cincinnati Bengals released defensive end Duane Clemons on Friday, the day before the start of free agency.

Clemons played in 10 games last year and had 18 tackles, including two sacks. In three seasons with the Bengals, he played 40 games, starting 27, and totaled 109 tackles and 14.5 sacks.

Clemons was scheduled to make $1.35 million in 2006, the final year of his contract.

He missed last season's first four games for violating the National Football League's substance-abuse policy.

A first-round draft pick from California by the Minnesota Vikings in 1996, the 6-foot-5, 275-pound end played with the Vikings and Kansas City Chiefs before signing with Cincinnati in 2003.
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5398904

Black Dynamite

03-10-2006, 07:27 PM

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Raiders cut Collins, saving $9.2 million on cap
Associated Press

The Oakland Raiders released quarterback Kerry Collins on Friday, an expected salary-cap move that got delayed five days after the NFL and its union postponed the start of free agency.

Kerry Collins
Quarterback
Oakland Raiders

Profile
2005 SEASON STATISTICS
Att Comp Yds TD Int Rat
565 302 3498 20 12 77.3

The Raiders had to make the tough decision on the fate of Collins, who knew his time was probably up with the Raiders because he would be too expensive. By releasing Collins, Oakland will save $9.2 million against the salary cap once bonuses are factored into the figures.

The Raiders thought they would be forced to let Collins go Sunday after the NFL and its union broke off talks earlier in the day, failing to agree upon an elevated cap number that would have allowed teams to keep certain high-priced veterans.

The 33-year-old Collins went 7-21 record in two years as Oakland's starter and said at the end of the season he was willing to restructure his deal but would not play for "peanuts."

A phone call to Collins wasn't immediately returned.

The move leaves new coach Art Shell with Marques Tuiasosopo and Andrew Walter as the leading candidates to replace Collins if the team doesn't make a move to acquire another quarterback.

Tuiasosopo has just two starts in his five-year career. In 2003, he replaced the injured Rich Gannon to start against the Detroit Lions but suffered a season-ending injury to his left knee in the first half.

Tuiasosopo started one game last season against the New York Jets after Collins was benched but turned the ball over four times in the 26-10 loss and Collins regained the starting job the following week.

Walter, a third-round pick out of Arizona State last year, didn't play as a rookie. He threw for 85 touchdowns and 10,617 yards during his college career.

There are few elite quarterbacks available on the free agent market, with Drew Brees, Jon Kitna and Josh McCown being among the top players.

Minnesota quarterback Daunte Culpepper, coming off a serious knee injury, has asked to be traded and the Raiders could try to make a move for him. Oakland acquired star receiver Randy Moss from the Vikings last season and could look to reunite the two.

Collins could end up in Baltimore to compete with Kyle Boller for the starting job with the Ravens. Baltimore's offensive coordinator, Jim Fassel, coached Collins with the New York Giants and went to the Super Bowl with him at the helm following the 2000 season.

The Raiders already made moves this offseason to reduce their payroll for next season. They released defensive lineman Ted Washington, offensive lineman Ron Stone and defensive back Denard Walker last week. They also declined a $10 million option for 2006 for safety Derrick Gibson. Those moves created more than $18 million in additional cap space for 2006.

Oakland also declined to use a franchise tag on Charles Woodson, who made $10.537 million last season.

The Raiders scored only 51 points, with just six touchdowns, in their final five games and lost their last six overall and eight of nine despite an offense featuring Collins, Moss, LaMont Jordan and Jerry Porter. At 4-12, they finished with one fewer victory than in fired coach Norv Turner's first season a year ago.

Perhaps the most glaring statistic is Oakland's failure to win a division game for the first time since owner Al Davis came aboard in 1963 to coach and eventually own the team. The Raiders went 1-11 against the AFC West during Turner's two seasons.

Collins started the season well, but couldn't maintain any consistency. He completed 302 passes for 3,759 yards -- his most since 2002 with the Giants -- and 20 touchdowns. He also was sacked 39 times and threw 12 interceptions.

Its official. Anthony reopen your champagne celebrate foreal this time.

Celebrate raiders style.

http://darthraider.com/1186bcf40.jpg

Anthony

03-10-2006, 08:15 PM

H1Man

03-11-2006, 04:33 AM

Panthers, Foster agree on three-year deal

The Carolina Panthers placed the transition tag on halfback DeShaun Foster to make sure he didn't hit the free agent market, Minutes before the start of free agency, the Panthers locked up Foster to a three-year deal.

Foster agreed to a three-year, $14.5 million contract Friday night that includes a $4.5 million signing bonus. The $14.5 million could end up being worth another $3 million based on escalators and incentives.

Foster became the third major free agent running back to decide to stay with his team. Shaun Alexander stayed with the Seahawks by signing an eight-year, $62 million contract. Ahman Green stayed with the Packers by signing a one-year deal at $2 million that could grow to $5 million based on incentives.

The Panthers placed a premium on keeping Foster after releasing Stephen Davis last month. Though Foster has fought some injuries, he's been a big back in many ways and has played well in big games. When Foster runs well, the Panthers usually get into the playoffs and do well.

On Friday, Foster received a $700,000 raise on his $5.150 million transition tender thanks to a calculating change in the transition and franchise tenders because of the new collective bargaining agreement. Foster is the first of the five remaining franchise or transition players to sign.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2363495

Bucs, Alstott agree to one-year deal

Six-time Pro Bowl fullback Mike Alstott, who ended the 2005 season considering retirement, will be back with the Tampa Bay Bucs for at least one more season, ESPN.com has confirmed.

Alstott late Friday night agreed to a one-year contract that will pay him $1.5 million to $2 million for 2006. The 10-year veteran would have been eligible for unrestricted free agency at midnight, but had indicated that, if he decided to continue his career, it would be with the Bucs, the only franchise for which he has played.

Tampa Bay officials, who spent part of Friday clearing salary cap space to get under the league-mandated spending limit, opened negotiations with Alstott and his agent earlier this week. Once Alstott decided to return for another year, it was just a matter of he and the Bucs arriving at a contract figure that met the needs of both parties.

There was a time early in the offseason when it was uncertain if the Bucs even wanted Alstott back in 2006, and some suggested the club wanted to go with younger fullbacks. But coaches and team officials eventually said they hoped that Alstott would return for another year.

Alstott had to restructure his contract for last year just to remain with the club.

As he exited the field at Raymond James Stadium following a playoff loss to Washington in January, the beat-up helmet he carried attested that, Alstott, 32, spent most of his career leading with his head. In 2003, he underwent neck surgery many felt would end his playing days. He appeared in a career-low four games that season and, even though he was productive in 2005, when he scored seven touchdowns, his role has been reduced.

In his first six seasons, Alstott averaged 15.3 starts. Over the last four seasons, he has started only 30 contests. He has appeared in 142 games and started 122 of them.

The former Purdue standout, a second-round choice in the 1996 draft, has rushed for 4,917 yards and 55 touchdowns on 1,299 carries. Alstott also has 284 receptions for 2,199 yards and 13 touchdowns. His 68 touchdowns are a franchise record and his rushing yards are the second most in Bucs history.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2363506

Packers will keep emerging star Kampman

Defensive end Aaron Kampman, a self-made player who transformed himself from a modestly regarded fifth-round draft choice to the Green Bay Packers' most consistent front four lineman, made himself a lot of money on Friday evening.

Just hours before he would have become an unrestricted free agent, and a player who would have received considerable attention on the open market, Kampman agreed on a long-term contract extension that will keep him with the Packers, ESPN.com learned through multiple NFL sources.

Details of the contract were not immediately available but the finances, sources said, were more than sufficient to have Kampman eschew free agency. Packers officials publicly acknowledged during the offseason that retaining Kampman was a priority, and the two sides have been bargaining for weeks in an attempt to craft a new deal.

Kampman was viewed by many teams as one of the premier front four players in free agency, an emerging, young star, and he was rated No. 7 by ESPN.com among potential unrestricted players at all positions.

The former Iowa star, chosen by the Packers in the 2002 draft, has demonstrated steady improvement every year of his career, a tribute to his work ethic and desire to achieve. Although he isn't particularly big, (6-feet-4, 285 pounds), Kampman is a terrific strongside anchor against the run and has improved markedly as a pass rusher over the last three years.

He enjoyed a career season in 2005, posting 105 tackles, and was one of the few defensive linemen in the NFL to crack the 100-tackle mark. Kampman also added a career-best 6½ sacks and three forced fumbles. He entered the season with just seven career sacks but his total had increased every season.

Although he started his career as just a spare lineman, and playing on special teams, Kampman moved into the Green Bay end rotation in 2003 and into the starting lineup in 2004. He is an excellent technician, uses his hands well to disengage from blockers, and possesses deceptive strength.

For his career, Kampman has 246 tackles, 13½ sacks, eight forced fumbles and two recoveries.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2363360

H1Man

03-11-2006, 04:35 AM

Bucs release Griese, two others

Quarterback Brian Griese and two other players were released by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Friday in cost-saving moves that freed more than $7 million in salary-cap space.

The club waived Griese rather than pay him a $2.6 million roster bonus, but remained hopeful of re-signing him.

The veteran of eight seasons with Denver, Miami and Tampa Bay led the Bucs to a 5-1 start before sustaining a season-ending knee injury Oct. 16.

Linebacker Jeff Gooch and offensive lineman Matt Stinchcomb, who both spent last season on injured reserve, also were released.

Last week, the Bucs restructured the contracts of five players - linebacker Derrick Brooks, defensive tackle Anthony McFarland, center John Wade, running back Michael Pittman and tight end Anthony Becht - to provide salary-cap relief.

In six games, the 30-year-old Griese completed 64.4 percent of his passes for 1,136 yards, seven touchdowns and seven interceptions. He was replaced by Chris Simms, who rebounded from losing his first two starts to help the Bucs win the NFC South and earn their first playoff berth since 2002.

Simms signed a one-year, $2.1 million contract March 1. Coach Jon Gruden and general manager Bruce Allen have said they want Griese back, too.
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5400278

H1Man

03-11-2006, 06:22 AM

Brooks out; Saints looking for quarterback

As the long-awaited NFL free agency period finally began late Friday night, the Saints were in the market for a new quarterback.

General Manager Mickey Loomis confirmed the long-anticipated departure of Aaron Brooks, the team’s starting quarterback for the last 5 1/2 seasons, hours before the league’s trading and free agent-signing period got off to a belated start thanks to the protracted negotiations on a new labor agreement.

Brooks’ departure had appeared inevitable since former coach Jim Haslett benched him for the final three games of last season, but Loomis left no doubt Friday.

“We’re going to move on.” Loomis told SIRIUS NFL Radio. “That’s what it comes down to and how we do that will be determined in the next few weeks.”

Loomis said it’s unlikely the Saints will be able to trade Brooks, who started 82 consecutive games before being benched in favor of Todd Bouman.

“We haven’t had anybody call,” Loomis said. “That’ll be determined here in the next week or so but I do know this — Aaron will be playing for someone next year and he’ll do a good job.”

If New Orleans waits until after June 2 to release Brooks, it is believed that they will save about $2 million under this year’s cap by splitting the prorated remainder of his bonus over the next two seasons. Brooks is due to make $6.5 million ($6.25 in base and $250,000 in workout bonuses) this year.

Brooks had his worst season as the Saints struggled to a 3-13 record, throwing 13 touchdowns and 17 interceptions.

“Aaron has done a good job for us; he’s a good quarterback,” Loomis said. “He’s done a lot of really positive things. We took a step backwards as a team this year and that’s not on Aaron Brooks’ shoulders. That’s on our team’s shoulders and my shoulders and everyone involved.”

Loomis reiterated Friday night the Saints have decided to build new coach Sean Payton’s offense around a different quarterback.

New Orleans has the second pick in the April 29-30 NFL draft and will be able to select one of the top three quarterbacks — USC’s Matt Leinart, Texas’ Vince Young or Vanderbilt’s Jay Cutler. But the arrival of Brooks’ successor might come long before then.

San Diego Chargers free-agent quarterback Drew Brees said he would not re-sign with the Chargers and expected to find a new team shortly after the start of free agency. Numerous reports have New Orleans near the top of the list of Brees’ suitors.

Signing Brees would give the Saints a proven NFL starter, but one that is rehabilitating from off-season surgery on his throwing shoulder.

Attempts to reach Brees on his cell phone were unsuccessful Friday night, but earlier in the day he spoke with the Associated Press.

“We’ve already got things lined up, and we’ll be rocking and rolling the minute the clock strikes midnight (Eastern),” Brees said from Birmingham, Ala, where he is rehabbing his shoulder.

The Saints entered free agency $16.08 million under the new cap of $102 million that was adjusted with the extension of the labor agreement Thursday.

Brees is a five-year veteran who is 20-11 the last two seasons. Miami is also considered a strong suitor of the former Pro Bowler, who led the Chargers to their only playoff appearance in the last decade, in 2004.

Brees, who was the first player picked in the second round in the 2001 draft, tore the labrum and damaged the rotator cuff in his throwing shoulder while trying to recover a fumble San Diego’s season finale. He had surgery Jan. 5.

Dr. James Andrews, who performed the surgery, said he expects Brees to make a full recovery, though it’s unclear when he’ll be ready to play.
http://www.2theadvocate.com/sports/2446917.html

Redskins cut five, re-sign RB Cartwright

The Washington Redskins cut five players Friday and re-signed running back Rock Cartwright.

Punter Tom Tupa, safety Matt Bowen, cornerback Walt Harris, defensive tackle Brandon Noble and center Cory Raymer were released as the team met the midnight deadline to get under the NFL's new $102 million salary cap.

The cuts saved the Redskins more than $7 million under the cap, and all were expected. Tupa, Noble and Harris have been beset by injuries, while Bowen and Raymer have lost their starting jobs over the last two years.

The Redskins also saved $4.4 million earlier this week in the deal that made linebacker LaVar Arrington a free agent and have reworked contracts of some returning veterans.

That leaves enough money for the Redskins to be active when free agency begins Saturday. The team will be shopping for a receiver, linebacker, defensive back and backup quarterback.

There was also enough money to re-sign versatile backup Cartwright to a four-deal contract. Cartwright's 22 special teams tackles ranked third on the team last year, and he ran for a career-high 118 yards against St. Louis when second-team back Ladell Betts was hurt.

The Redskins also confirmed that they have tendered three restricted free agents: guard Derrick Dockery, cornerback Ade Jimoh and linebacker Chris Clemons. The team has the right to match any offer the three players get from other teams.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2363301

FillyCheezeSteak

03-11-2006, 02:28 PM

LeCharles Bentley is gone.................we're stuck with Dominic Raoila unless we are cool and draft Greg Eslinger from Minnesota in the 2nd round like I hope.

DennyMcLain

03-11-2006, 04:04 PM

Free agency begins with Culpepper still a Viking

ESPN.com

The Vikings tried to put a Friday night deadline on a trade of Daunte Culpepper, but no deal has been finalized.

Three teams supposedly were in the final bidding -- the Raiders, Dolphins and Titans. But the Raiders dropped out when they heard the price was going to be a second-round choice.

The Vikings were telling teams they could get a second-round choice for Culpepper, who asked to be traded early this week.

In other Minnesota news, the Vikings made contact with Seahawks guard Steve Hutchinson and are trying to schedule a visit over the weekend. Hutchinson is the Seahawks' transition player and is going to command more than $6 million a year. The Seahawks would have seven days to match any offer.

Givens and taken away: The first weird free-agency report of the night came from Cleveland, where the team's Web site reported that the Browns had signed Patriots wide receiver David Givens and Ravens punter Dave Zastudil. The only problem was it wasn't true.

Now, Givens isn't even going to visit Cleveland. Givens will be in Miami on Saturday and will visit the Houston Texans on Sunday. The price tag for Givens rose above what the Browns wanted to pay.

Givens' agent, Brad Blank, theorized that someone hacked into the Browns' site, which is what accounted for the mistake.

D.C. lobbying players: The Redskins came out swinging. They made contact after midnight Friday with 49ers defensive end Andre Carter, Rams safety Adam Archuleta, Chiefs quarterback Todd Collins and Steelers receiver Antwaan Randle El and have them flying in as early as Saturday.

The Redskins are also working on a possible trade for restricted free agent Brandon Lloyd of the 49ers. San Francisco gave Lloyd the first-round tender, but the Redskins have initiated trade talks that could give the 49ers two mid-round draft picks. Lloyd agreed Friday night to make a visit Washington on Sunday. There is a good chance Lloyd will come to an agreement with Redskins for big money before the end of the weekend. The Redskins plan is to sign both Randle El and Lloyd to shore up their receiving corp.

Lewis waiting: The phones were quiet for Ravens halfback Jamal Lewis on Friday night. He didn't receive any calls in the first hour after the start of free agency and doesn't have any visits scheduled at this early date.

Chargers chatting it up: The Chargers made contact with Panthers safety Marlon McCree and will have him in for a visit Saturday. They are looking to upgrade at the safety position for the second consecutive year.

The Chargers tried to talk Saints center LeCharles Bentley into a visit, but he opted for another visit, presumably with the Eagles. There is a chance the Eagles could be willing to go to $6 million a year to sign Bentley.

Feeling the Brees: The Chargers front office says it didn't pull any incentives off an offer for outgoing quarterback Drew Brees. The Chargers have been offering him a contract for more than a month, and the contract is loaded with incentives in the first year because of his offseason shoulder surgery. Public confusion occurred when San Diego reporters heard Friday that the Chargers pulled the incentives off the table. The Chargers say that the offer still remains, but Brees appears gone from San Diego.

The former Purdue quarterback has decided to make a trip to New Orleans Saturday and then visit the Miami Dolphins on Sunday.

Rams courting Witherspoon: Panthers linebacker Will Witherspoon heard from the Rams on Saturday night and will be making a visit to St. Louis. Witherspoon could get a deal worth more than $5 million a year. The Panthers have been trying to negotiate a deal with him for a while. Now, they fear the Rams will sign him.

Seahawks seeking secondary help: The Seahawks contacted Giants cornerback Will Allen and will have him in for a visit this week. After cutting Andre Dyson, the Seahawks were in the market for a starting cornerback. Allen lost his job in New York to Sam Madison, who signed with the Giants Friday.

Packers focused on defensive front: The Packers called after midnight and talked Rams defensive tackle Ryan Pickett into coming in for a visit Sunday. The Packers could lose Grady Jackson in free agency. After re-signing defensive end Aaron Kampman and having the chance to draft Mario Williams with their first pick, the Packers are trying to upgrade their defensive line. The Cardinals and the Bills are also interested in Pickett.

Dream Weaver: The Houston Texans are hot after Ravens defensive end Anthony Weaver. Weaver will be one of their first interviews, and the Texans are expected to try go sign him over the weekend.

H1Man

03-12-2006, 07:14 PM

Rams continue to revamp D with LB Witherspoon

The Rams' persistence paid off by not letting Panthers linebacker Will Witherspoon go to the airport and letting him fly to New Orleans for a visit.

Witherspoon agreed with the Rams on a six-year, $33 million contract that includes $15 million in guarantees. Witherspoon turned down an offer to stay with the Panthers for close to $11.5 million to sign.

The Saints were trying to be persuasive and get him signed, but Witherspoon stayed in St. Louis and got the deal with the Rams instead.

In the past few days, the Rams have added defensive tackle La'Roi Glover, Witherspoon and safety Corey Chavous to their defense.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2365548

Browns agree with offensive linemen Bentley, Shaffer

With money to spend and holes to fill, the Cleveland Browns struck quickly in free agency Saturday, reaching agreements with several high-profile unrestricted free agents who will dramatically alter the landscape of the team's offensive line unit.

The Browns have signed center LeCharles Bentley of New Orleans, the top-rated player overall in ESPN.com's ratings of unrestricted free agents.

The team also reached an agreement in principle with Atlanta Falcons left offensive tackle Kevin Shaffer, ESPN.com's 26th-rated free agent.

In addition, the Browns also signed veteran wide receiver Joe Jurevicius, who got a four-year deal.

Both Bentley and Jurevicius are Cleveland natives who are excited about the prospect of returning to their hometown. Bentley attended the city's St. Ignatius High School, and is a longtime Browns fan.

"I can die happy now," said Bentley, who wore a Browns jersey under his sports coat. "This has been my dream."

Bentley's contract is for six years at $36 million, and includes $12.5 million in guarantees. Shaffer's deal is for six years, totaling between $36 million -$37 million and includes $12 million in guarantees. The value of Shaffer's first three years will be $17.5 million.

"This is where it all started for me," said Jurevicius. "I had opportunities to go to a couple different places. First and foremost, I wanted to become a Cleveland Brown, put on the orange helmet, play in front of Lake Erie and enjoy the feelings.

"This is going to add years to my career because of excitement that comes along with it."

Jurevicius, who played at Lake Catholic High School on Cleveland's east side, has 233 career receptions for 3,010 yards and 30 touchdowns. He also played on Super Bowl teams with the New York Giants and Tampa Bay.

Cleveland officials had suggested as the free agency signing period approached that they would be very active, and early on, in addressing key needs. The Browns had about $20 million in salary cap room even before the extension to the collective bargaining agreement added $7.5 million more per team. General manager Phil Savage and coach Romeo Crennel moved quickly in 2004 at the outset of free agency, and their Saturday forays will aid an offense that statistically ranked No. 26 in the league in 2005.

Landing the highly regarded Bentley is a huge acquisition for the Browns, who wanted more bulk and power on the interior of their offensive line.

It had been rumored for about two weeks that Bentley would sign with Philadelphia once the free agent market opened for business, but those reports proved erroneous.

Bentley, 26, was the Saints' second-round pick in the 2002 draft. He began his career at guard and then moved to center in 2004. He earned one Pro Bowl berth at each position and scouts leaguewide agree that his best football is still ahead of him. The former Ohio State standout is a mauler, the sort of road-grader blocker the Browns need. At 315 pounds, he can take on the NFL's biggest nose tackle and has the power to drive defenders off the line of scrimmage.

In four seasons with the Saints, he played in 57 games, all as a starter.

The intention of the Browns at left tackle was to re-sign L.J. Shelton, who started all 16 games in 2005, while playing on a one-year deal. But when they could not land an extension with Shelton, the Browns quickly turned to Shaffer, a four-year veteran.

Although he struggled against speed-rushers at times in 2005, Shaffer is an emerging pass protector, as former seventh-round choice who made himself a solid player through hard work. The former Tulsa star moved into the Falcons' starting lineup midway through the 2003 season. A very good technician, and a player who figures to keep improving, Shaffer has played in 53 games and started 39 of them.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2364025

Browns add Washington, Zastudil to free-agent haul

For the Cleveland Browns, the second day of free agency apparently is just an extension of the first, with the only difference being a shift toward addressing defensive shortcomings.

One of the NFL's most aggressive franchises at the outset of the free agency period, the Browns on Sunday added two more players, reaching an agreement with veteran defensive tackle Ted Washington and signing punter Dave Zastudil. The moves continue the momentum generated on Saturday, when the Browns signed center LeCharles Bentley, left offensive tackle Kevin Shaffer and wide receiver Joe Jurevicius.

Contract details on the Zastudil deal were not immediately available. Washington will sign a two-year contract worth $7 million. Cleveland entered free agency with $27.1 million in available cap funds, the fourth most in the league, and general manager Phil Savage and coach Romeo Crennel have used that advantage to quickly upgrade their roster.

In Washington, who was recently released by the Oakland Raiders for cap reasons, the Browns have netted one of the NFL's most effective interior defenders against the run. The only downside with Washington is that he will be 38 years old next month. But he started all 16 games for Oakland in 2005 and the Browns obviously feel he can still provide muscle at the nose tackle spot.

A 14-year veteran, Washington will be joining his seventh different franchise in a long and productive career that has included four Pro Bowl appearances. A few other teams, notably the Baltimore Ravens, had demonstrated interest in Washington over the past week, since his release.

The former Louisville standout has appeared in 215 games and has registered 685 tackles, 34½ sacks, eight forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries and two interceptions. He has always been an inside anchor against the run, and the kind of wide-bodied player who occupies plenty of blockers. Washington has played in the past with San Francisco (1991-93), Denver (1994), Buffalo (1995-2000), Chicago (2001-2002), New England (2003) and Oakland (2004-2005).

Zastudil is a four-year veteran, the Ravens' fourth-round pick in the 2002 draft, and blessed with a strong leg. He and Jason Baker of Carolina were viewed as the top two punters in the free agent pool and it had been rumored that the Browns would pursue him.

Like Jurevicius and Bentley, he is a Cleveland-area native, played at Bay Village (Ohio) High School, and now will have an opportunity to perform in his hometown.

Zastudil, 27, has averaged 41.6 yards gross and 37.1 yards net on 327 punts. He has 89 kicks inside the opponents' 20-yard line and just 32 touchbacks, but has had three punts blocked in four seasons. The former Ohio University has allowed 160 punts to be returned for an average of 9.3 yards.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2365425

H1Man

03-12-2006, 07:16 PM

Ravens keep linebacker Scott with $13.5M deal

The Baltimore Ravens re-signed linebacker Bart Scott on Sunday after he turned down a larger, longer-term offer from the Cleveland Browns.

Scott left the Browns' training complex after agreeing in principle to a three-year contract with Baltimore. The deal is worth $13.5 million, including a $6.5 million signing bonus.

The former undrafted free agent from Southern Illinois will earn base salaries of $1 million in 2006, $2.6 million in 2007 and $3.4 million in 2008.

Scott proved his worth last season, making 10 starts in relief of injured All-Pro linebacker Ray Lewis. Scott recorded a career-high 119 tackles and four sacks in 2005.

Until last season, he was mostly known as a special-teams player and a versatile linebacker capable of playing safety in the Ravens' nickel package. Scott turned down a five-year contract offer from Browns general manager Phil Savage, the former Ravens director of player personnel.

"Bart is just thrilled to come back home," said Harold Lewis, Scott's agent.

The Ravens also agreed to a four-year deal with defensive tackle Justin Bannan.

Bannan played with Buffalo last season, replacing Sam Adams as a starter midway through the year and finished with a career-high 40 tackles and 1½ sacks. In his four-year career, he has 78 tackles and 2½ sacks. His deal includes a $3 million signing bonus, said his agent, Jack Mills.

"It's an excellent fit for Justin in Baltimore," Mills said. "Justin is an extremely high-effort guy who will be very productive and a positive force in the locker room."
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2365686

Ravens agree to deal with DE Pryce

The Baltimore Ravens reached an agreement in principle with four-time Pro Bowl defensive end Trevor Pryce on Saturday, team officials and Pryce's agent said.

Pryce, a starter for the Denver Broncos for the past nine seasons, agreed to a five-year contract worth $25 million that includes $10 million in guaranteed money.

Pryce's arrival happened hours after Baltimore lost defensive tackle Maake Kemoeatu, defensive end Anthony Weaver and running back Chester Taylor on the opening day of free agency.

The deal will be finalized early this week, officials said.

Pryce has 64 career sacks in nine seasons.

The former first-round draft pick from Clemson has been hampered for the past few years by a nagging back injury. Pryce repeatedly has insisted that his back is fine, but his production has been declining since posting a combined total of 25 sacks in 1999 and 2000.

After being limited to two games in 2004 because of the back injury, Pryce had 31 tackles and four sacks last season and was credited with one tackle in two playoff games.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2365141

H1Man

03-12-2006, 07:18 PM

Broncos re-sign Dayne, who might start in 2006

It's a career course taken by a lot of Denver Broncos tailbacks, from afterthought to starter, and now Ron Dayne seems poised to travel the same path.

The former Heisman Trophy winner, a disappointment for much of his six-year career, has signed a three-year contract to remain in Denver rather than test the unrestricted free agent market. And in re-upping for three more seasons, Dayne is suddenly the favorite to move up to the starting lineup, to replace Mike Anderson, who was released last week for salary cap reasons.

Complete financial details of Dayne's contract were not yet available, but it is believed that he received a signing bonus of about $700,000.

His disappointing resume aside, Denver officials and coaches seem confident that Dayne can handle the starting job in 2006, if the team does not further bolster its tailback depth chart. The former New York Giants' first-round choice, Dayne appeared in only 10 games in 2005, his first with the Broncos, and logged just 53 carries for 270 yards.

But in his brief playing time, as the No. 3 tailback behind Anderson and Tatum Bell, Dayne showed the kind of one-cut running skills critical to the success of the Broncos' ground attack. And his 5.1-yard average per carry was impressive as well.

The Broncos have made a habit of turning low-round draft choices and seeming castoffs into 1,000-yard rushers and Dayne, who won the 1999 Heisman Trophy after a brilliant career at Wisconsin, is the latest candidate for such a career transformation. Bell, who rushed for 921 yards and a 5.3-yard average in '05, will probably be given a chance to compete for the starting job as well. But he failed to take advantage of a similar opportunity in training camp last summer. There is also a chance the Broncos could decide to add another back through free agency or the draft.

For now, though, it looks like Dayne is penciled in atop the depth chart.

Dayne, who will turn 28 on Tuesday, was the Giants' first-round choice in 2000, the 11th player taken overall that year. As he rookie, he rushed for 770 yards and five touchdowns, but never again came close to that kind of production. He started just 14 games in five seasons with the Giants, and garnered very little attention in free agency last spring, and eventually signed a one-year contract with the Broncos.

In six seasons and 72 career appearances, Dayne has 638 rushes for 2,337 yards and 17 touchdowns. Only once in the past 11 seasons has Denver failed to have a 1,000-yard rusher.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2365345

Vikings make splash, land RB Taylor, K Longwell

Armed with plenty of space under the salary cap, the Minnesota Vikings surged into free agency Saturday.

They signed running back Chester Taylor, kicker Ryan Longwell and linebacker Ben Leber after retaining receiver Koren Robinson and safety Willie Offord -- and continued to talk to other teams about trading disenfranchised quarterback Daunte Culpepper.

"We're dealing with the other situation," coach Brad Childress said, referring to the injured Culpepper's recent request to be traded or released. "It will play itself out."

Asked if there was a timetable for a deal, Childress joked, "Sometime before next season."

Taylor, the backup in Baltimore to Jamal Lewis, signed a four-year, $14.1 million contract that includes $5.6 million in bonuses. Since injury-prone Mewelde Moore is the only returning back with any experience, Minnesota was in the market for a featured runner. The Vikings haven't had a 1,000-yard rusher since Michael Bennett in 2002. Bennett, a free agent, won't be re-signed.

"Standing on the sidelines was killing me," Taylor said at the team's practice facility, where he was introduced with Longwell and Leber. "I just wanted to go out there and see what I can do. I've always wanted to be the go-to guy and have people depending on me. I want the ball in my hands."

Taylor rushed for 487 yards on 117 carries last year, his fourth in the league, after rushing 160 times for 714 yards and two touchdowns in 2004. Taylor also caught 41 passes for 292 yards and a score in 2005.

"The last backup to Jamal Lewis was Priest Holmes," vice president for player personnel Fran Foley said. "I'm not saying that he's Priest Holmes, but that was a selling point of ours."

Robinson's deal is worth $12.7 million with a $1 million signing bonus, ESPN.com's John Clayton reported. Had he gone onto the open market, Robinson would have been sought by many teams as a wide receiver, his primary position. Negotiations between the Vikings and Robinson had been ongoing for much of the past month.

Green Bay's all-time leading scorer, Longwell has been with the Packers since 1997, when he was a rookie on their second Super Bowl team. In 2000, Longwell totaled a career-best 131 points and went 33-for-38 on his field goals -- including 20 makes from 40 yards and longer.

In 2005, the nine-year veteran posted career lows in several categories, making only 74 percent of his field goals (20-for-27) and finished with 90 points. He went 6-for-10 between 30 and 39 yards and 3-for-5 between 40 and 49 yards.

In Minnesota, Longwell is best known for twice giving Green Bay victories on game-ending field goals during the 2004 season, though he has missed his share of clutch kicks with the Packers.

Paul Edinger had modest success, including three game-winning field goals, as the Vikings' kicker last season. But he is a free agent and now surely won't be retained. Instead, Minnesota was more than happy to lure a key player away from a division rival. And Longwell was more than happy to find a team with that plays indoors.

"I braved the wind and the field and the cold in Lambeau for a long time," he said. "It's always been an appeal to me to see what I can do in a controlled environment."

Leber started for San Diego at outside linebacker since his rookie year in 2002, losing his job to star rookie Shawne Merriman last October and landing on injured reserve in November with a foot injury that required surgery. He's still rehabilitating, but the South Dakota native said he's close to 100 percent.

Leber played at Kansas State and was drafted by the Chargers in the third round. Leber has 12 sacks in his four-year career and could replace incumbent starter Keith Newman, who isn't expected to be re-signed.

Offord spent most of his season on injured reserve after undergoing knee surgery, but he was a valuable special teams player and backup safety. He agreed to terms on a two-year contract, according to his agent, David Canter.

The Vikings did lose two starters from their secondary they weren't expected to pursue, cornerback Brian Williams (to Jacksonville) and strong safety Corey Chavous (to St. Louis). Williams took over in November for Fred Smoot, who got hurt and never regained his job. Smoot was one of Minnesota's high-profile signings in 2005.

In deference to Sunday's memorial services for Twins Hall of Famer Kirby Puckett, the Vikings wanted to get these signings done as quickly as possible. There's a chance they'll look at bringing in a quarterback, but with Brad Johnson returning as the starter after a successful fill-in for Culpepper down the stretch, the offensive line is probably the next place Minnesota will look to upgrade.

"At this point, you don't rule anything out," Foley said. "There's good players out there. If there are good players and we have an interest in them, we'll try and get them in here."
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2365156

H1Man

03-12-2006, 07:20 PM

Redskins add Randle El to receiving corps

Here's all you need to know about the approach of Washington owner Daniel Snyder and the lack of quality receivers available in free agency this year: the Redskins gave former Steeler Antwaan Randle El almost as many millions as he had catches for Pittsburgh last year.

Washington and Randle El's agent, Fletcher Smith of CSMG Sports, finalized a seven-year contract worth $31 million that includes $11.5 million in bonuses. The deal is voidable after the sixth year.

The Redskins, whose offense sputtered on its way to scoring just 27 points in two playoffs games, on Saturday added via trade San Francisco Brandon Lloyd to what is now a rather deep wide receiver depth chart that also includes Pro Bowler Santana Moss and David Patten, both of whom Washington acquired last year.

Randle El had a career-low 35 receptions for the Super Bowl champion Steelers in 2005 but in four seasons has established himself as one of the game's most versatile performers. While he is no doubt more famous for his 43-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter of Super Bowl XL than any of his 162 career catches or five return touchdowns, the Redskins signed him to be their No. 2 receiver, opposite Moss. Washington apparently plans to employ a lot of three-receiver looks next season, with former Rams and Chiefs offensive coordinator Al Saunders calling the plays.

Randle El made a bit of a tough call Saturday, rejecting a six-year, $18 million (including $8 million to sign) to play for the Bears in his native Illinois.

Besides the bigger contract, what sold Randle El on the Redskins was the prospect of playing under a proven coordinator in Saunders, with a veteran quarterback in Mark Brunell, and the promise of a key role in Washington's retooled offense. Randle El, remember, played quarterback at Indiana, and he longs to handle the ball more than he did in Pittsburgh's run-oriented scheme.

Two years ago, Snyder went retro when he lured Hall of Fame coach Joe Gibbs out of retirement. Now Snyder has brought the Smurfs back. Randle El measures 5 feet 10 inches and 192 pounds. Moss is 5-10, 185; Patten 5-10, 190; and Lloyd 6 feet, 184.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2365504

Niners trade Lloyd to Redskins for draft picks

The San Francisco 49ers traded leading receiver Brandon Lloyd to Washington on Saturday for the Redskins' third-round pick this year and their fourth-round selection in 2007.

Lloyd was a restricted free agent for the 49ers, who drafted him in the third round three years ago. He was San Francisco's top receiver last season, catching 48 passes for 733 yards and five touchdowns for the NFL's worst offense, but alienated teammates and clashed with Mike Nolan's new coaching staff.

Though Nolan repeatedly spoke with Lloyd about the receiver's attitude during a tumultuous season, the coach denied any personality conflicts, even saying he would miss Lloyd. Nolan claimed the trade wasn't requested by Lloyd, who improved markedly during his one season under receivers coach Jerry Sullivan.

"He's got some of the best hands you'll see, and he does make plays," Nolan said. "We did this to make our team better. ... If he didn't [want to return to San Francisco], he never voiced it to me."

San Francisco signed Lloyd to an offer sheet earlier in the month, but Washington seems more enamored with his highlight-reel skills than the 49ers were. Lloyd was scheduled to visit the Redskins' training complex Sunday.

A call to Lloyd's cell phone wasn't immediately returned.

Though Lloyd made countless eye-popping catches during his three years with San Francisco, he also made a series of memorable drops and mistakes while feuding with the media at times. Lloyd also drew criticism from hard-nosed teammates such as Fred Beasley and Kevan Barlow for his flashy jewelry and his aspirations to become a rapper in his spare time.

Lloyd caught 105 passes for 1,510 yards and 13 touchdowns in his three seasons with San Francisco. He also caught rookie quarterback Alex Smith's only touchdown pass of the year in the 49ers' season-ending win over Houston.

Lloyd should be a capable complement to Santana Moss, the Redskins' leading receiver last season with 84 catches for 1,483 yards and nine touchdowns. Washington's offense struggled last season, with only Moss and H-back Chris Cooley catching more than 30 passes.

The 49ers already released receiver Johnnie Morton earlier in the offseason, leaving oft-injured Arnaz Battle as their most experienced receiver. They're expected to go after free agents, including Pittsburgh's Antwaan Randle-El, and seek more receiving help in next month's draft.

The 49ers also could lose another free agent to the Redskins: Defensive end-turned-linebacker Andre Carter was scheduled to visit Washington on Saturday.

"It's a strange thing to be [ranked] 32nd on both sides of the ball and still have guys after your players," Nolan said.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2364444

H1Man

03-12-2006, 07:21 PM

Vikings sign Hutchinson to gigantic offer sheet

Seattle Seahawks star Steve Hutchinson, designated as a transition free agent by the NFC champions, has signed an offer sheet with the Minnesota Vikings that will make him the highest paid guard in NFL history, ESPN.com has learned.

The offer sheet is for seven years, at $49 million, and includes $16 million in guarantees. Once the offer sheet is executed, Seattle will have seven days to match all its principle terms, or allow Hutchinson to move to the Vikings. If the Seahawks do not match it, they will receive no draft-pick compensation.

How rich is the Vikings' deal, negotiated by Tom Condon and Ken Kremer of IMG Football, for the five-year veteran guard? Consider this: Only three NFL offensive tackles, a position that is always paid much higher than guards, can match Hutchinson's average of $7 million. Larry Allen of Dallas, currently the league's highest-paid guard, averages $6.1 million on his Cowboys contract.

It is believed that, before the start of the free agency period, Seattle was offering Hutchinson an average of $5.8 million per year.

Seattle opted to use the less expensive transition designation on Hutchinson, rather than the franchise tag, and the difference is significant. In most cases, the franchise marker is enough to scare off any suitors, because the level of compensation is a pair of first-round draft choices. The transition label carries no compensation and it is easier for veterans under that marker to attract other teams.

Under the current system, implemented in 1993, just three franchise players have ever switched teams in free agency. During the same period, 18 transition players have changed teams.

By signing Hutchinson to the offer sheet, the Vikings, who entered the free agency period with $30.9 million in available salary cap room, second-most in the league, are remaining aggressive as the club attempts to upgrade the roster under first-year coach Brad Childress. The Vikings broke from the chute quickly on Saturday, either signing or reaching agreements with five players.

Hutchinson, 28, would certainly provide the kind of toughness and mauler's mentality the Vikings have lacked on their offensive line, and would team with tackle Bryant McKinnie to give Minnesota one of the best leftside blocking tandems in the league.

A first-round choice in the 2001 draft, Hutchinson is a three-time Pro Bowl performer. The former University of Michigan star has appeared in 68 games, all of them starts, and has played all 16 games in all but the 2002 campaign. That year, a broken leg limited Hutchinson to four appearances.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2365600

H1Man

03-12-2006, 08:41 PM

Bills sign wide receiver Davis

Receiver Andre' Davis signed with the Buffalo Bills on Sunday, the team's third free-agent addition in two days.

Davis is a four-year NFL veteran who played 11 games, including two in the playoffs, for the New England Patriots last season. Drafted in the second round by Cleveland in 2002, Davis had an inconsistent and injury-troubled stint with the Browns, who traded him to the Patriots last summer.

On Saturday, the Bills signed defensive tackle Larry Tripplett and tight Robert Royal, the first day of the NFL's free-agency period.

Where Davis fits on Buffalo's depth chart is a question, and might depend on the team's decision to retain or release veteran star Eric Moulds. Lee Evans and Roscoe Parrish are second and third on the depth chart after the Bills elected not to re-sign third-stringer Josh Reed prior to the start of free agency.

Davis was limited by a nagging toe injury in 2004, when he started only seven games with Cleveland and, prior to being traded, had fallen to the bottom of the Browns' depth chart.

The injury bothered him at the start of last season, and the Patriots briefly released Davis before re-signing him in October. He finished with nine catches for 190 yards and a touchdown - all career lows - in nine regular-season games.

In Cleveland, Davis played with current Bills quarterback Kelly Holcomb, who will compete with J.P. Losman for the starting job this offseason.
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5404784

McCree, Chargers agree to $16 million deal

Free agent safety Marlon McCree agreed to a five-year, $16 million deal with San Diego on Saturday night, an upgrade for the Chargers' light-hitting secondary.

McCree, who had been with the Carolina Panthers, will make $6 million in bonuses and guaranteed money in the first two years of the deal.

He was the first player to visit the Chargers after free agency opened Friday night.

General manager A.J. Smith said the coaching staff will decide whether McCree will play free or strong safety.

"He's a terrific football player, very versatile," Smith said. "He's tough and competitive."

McCree had 88 tackles and three interceptions for Carolina last year. He spent the 2003-04 seasons with the Houston Texans after beginning his career in Jacksonville.
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5403772

H1Man

03-13-2006, 01:09 AM

Mike Anderson to sign 4-year deal with Baltimore

With one free-agent runner already gone and another likely to leave, the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday night filled their need for a starting running back by reaching a contract agreement in principle with Mike Anderson.

Anderson, 32, will sign a four-year, $8 million contract that includes a $2 million signing bonus. The deal will be completed later this week. It's likely the Ravens will also try to bolster their tailback depth chart through the draft.

A six-year veteran and two-time 1,000-yard rusher, Anderson was released by the Denver Broncos last week for salary cap reasons.

Baltimore lost highly regarded backup tailback Chester Taylor when he signed a $14.1 million deal Saturday with the Minnesota Vikings. Starting tailback Jamal Lewis, also an unrestricted free agent, probably will leave the Ravens as well. There have been some discussions aimed at keeping Lewis via a contract extension, but the two sides are not making progress.

Ironically, one of the other teams interested in Lewis, who rushed for more than 2,000 yards in 2003, is Denver. It's believed Lewis is considering a visit with Broncos officials this week.

The Ravens don't have any other tailbacks on the roster with starting experience, and Anderson is a good fit with the team's power-based offense. It appears the Ravens landed Anderson at a fair price and with a deal that does not put them at too much financial exposure with an older back.

During his Broncos tenure, Anderson appeared in 74 games and started 51 of them. He carried 865 times for 3,822 yards and 36 touchdowns. He also had 79 receptions for 647 yards and five touchdowns.

A former Utah standout, Anderson was a sixth-round choice in the 2000 draft, a late bloomer who did not begin his college career until he served four years in the U.S. Marine Corps. He earned league rookie of the year honors in 2000 when he rushed for a career-best 1,487 yards and 15 touchdowns.

Over the next four years, Anderson -- who turns 33 in September -- rushed for only 1,321 yards, and he missed the entire 2004 season with a severe groin injury. He rebounded in '05, regained his starting job and posted a team-high 1,014 yards and 12 touchdowns.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2366084

Ravens keep linebacker Scott with $13.5M deal

The Baltimore Ravens re-signed linebacker Bart Scott on Sunday after he turned down a larger, longer-term offer from the Cleveland Browns.

Scott left the Browns' training complex after agreeing in principle to a three-year contract with Baltimore. The deal is worth $13.5 million, including a $6.5 million signing bonus.

The former undrafted free agent from Southern Illinois will earn base salaries of $1 million in 2006, $2.6 million in 2007 and $3.4 million in 2008.

Scott proved his worth last season, making 10 starts in relief of injured All-Pro linebacker Ray Lewis. Scott recorded a career-high 119 tackles and four sacks in 2005.

Until last season, he was mostly known as a special-teams player and a versatile linebacker capable of playing safety in the Ravens' nickel package. Scott turned down a five-year contract offer from Browns general manager Phil Savage, the former Ravens director of player personnel.

"Bart is just thrilled to come back home," said Harold Lewis, Scott's agent.

The Ravens also agreed to a four-year deal with defensive tackle Justin Bannan.

Bannan played with Buffalo last season, replacing Sam Adams as a starter midway through the year and finished with a career-high 40 tackles and 1½ sacks. In his four-year career, he has 78 tackles and 2½ sacks. His deal includes a $3 million signing bonus, said his agent, Jack Mills.

"It's an excellent fit for Justin in Baltimore," Mills said. "Justin is an extremely high-effort guy who will be very productive and a positive force in the locker room."
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2365686

Panthers to sign center Hartwig to 5-year deal

The Carolina Panthers filled the gaping hole in the middle of their offensive line Sunday, reaching a contract agreement with center Justin Hartwig.

A three-year starter and four-year veteran, Hartwig will sign a five-year, $17 million contract. The deal includes $7 million in bonuses.

The 27-year-old Hartwig, an unrestricted free agent who had played his entire career with the Tennessee Titans, will replace longtime starter Jeff Mitchell, who is also an unrestricted free agent.

Mitchell was one of the Carolina players cited in a steroid investigating linking some Carolina veterans to a Columbia, S.C., physician. It is not believed that situation contributed to the team's decision not to retain Mitchell.

In adding Hartwig, considered by most scouts as the second-best center available in the free-agent pool, after LeCharles Bentley, the Panthers landed a player who is five years younger than Mitchell and who is seen as a peaking performer.

Hartwig also has played recently with younger linemen in Tennessee, and that might be a key in Carolina. The Panthers are expected to elevate second-year veteran Ethan Mathis, a third-round choice in 2005 who appeared in just nine games as a rookie, to the starting job at right guard. The incumbent at the position, Tutan Reyes, is a free agent who probably will sign elsewhere.

A sixth-round pick in 2002, Hartwig has been a player who has improved every year in the league. He was a tackle in college and had never played center at any level before 2003, when the Titans moved him there because of injuries. The former Kansas Jayhawk adapted quickly to the center spot and, in his three seasons there, has missed only one game.

Hartwig has more than enough size (6 feet 4, 312 pounds) and strength to take on the league's bigger nose tackles. But having played tackle in the past, he also has quick feet and is a good pass protector who can slide laterally and pick up the blitz.

Titans officials had been working since the last month of the 2005 season on retaining Hartwig, but were unable to complete an extension to keep him.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2365888

WTFchris

03-13-2006, 02:21 PM

Varsity

03-13-2006, 02:57 PM

Apparently 25 of the top 50 FA's have signed somewhere.

The Lions better get moving. Luckily, Howard is the only one I am pissed we didn't get in the running for. He was good for 12 sacks off the end. There are still some big time players we could use if the money is right:

DE - John Abraham
LB - Julian Peterson
CB - Ty Law

Imagine signing those 3. Best D in football? Possibly.

I think they could get one of the 3 and that'd be solid. I think they need to get moving on their own guys- Kosier, Goodman and Kalimba are all gone. I was pretty sure that they would hurry up and make a move for Kalimba, but I guess not. Only thing it seems like they're really moving toward are a QB and backup Barry from GB.

H1Man

03-15-2006, 10:21 AM

Dolphins release Frerotte

With a trade for Daunte Culpepper awaiting a doctor's approval, the Miami Dolphins released last year's starting quarterback, Gus Frerotte.

Miami acquired Culpepper on Tuesday from the Minnesota Vikings, with the deal contingent on Culpepper passing a physical. That's not a given, because he's recovering from a serious knee injury suffered in October.

But the Dolphins declined to wait for the trade to become final to release Frerotte, who would have cost the team $4.38 million against the salary cap this year.

Frerotte went 9-6 as a starter in his only year with Miami, and threw a career-high 18 touchdown passes. The 12-year veteran has played for six NFL teams.

His departure leaves the Dolphins in the market for a backup quarterback. Sage Rosenfels, who filled that role last year, signed last week with Houston.
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5412072

H1Man

03-18-2006, 07:20 AM

Redskins trade QB Ramsey to Jets

The Washington Redskins traded quarterback Patrick Ramsey to the New York Jets on Friday for a sixth-round pick in the April draft.

Ramsey began last year as the starter before losing the job to Mark Brunell and asked to be traded. The Jets were looking for another quarterback to compete with Chad Pennington going into training camp.

Though the Jets restructured Pennington's contract earlier this month, there are concerns he won't be able to come back from a second operation on his right shoulder.

Pennington has been the team's starter since midway through the 2002 season, but has missed time the last three seasons with various injuries. He re-injured his shoulder last September against Jacksonville and was out for the rest of the year, but he says he will be ready to participate for the start of minicamps in May.

Ramsey was a first-round pick in the 2002 draft, when Steve Spurrier coached the team, and started five games that season.

He started all 11 games he played in the following season, but went back to the bench when coach Joe Gibbs, who prefers experienced quarterbacks, became head coach in 2004 and the team traded for Brunell.

"We appreciate Patrick's contributions during his time here with the Washington Redskins," Gibbs said in a statement. "Through this entire process we always wanted what was best for Patrick and in working with him we feel this is where he wants to be. We wish all the best to him and his family and his future with the New York Jets."

Ramsey started 24 games in his four seasons with the Redskins, completing 55 percent of his passes for 5,649 yards with 34 touchdown passes and 29 interceptions.

Last season, he started one game and finished with 25 passing attempts, by far the fewest in his career. But he was clearly made expendable when the Redskins drafted another quarterback, Jason Campbell, in the first round of last April's draft.
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5421846

Black Dynamite

03-20-2006, 06:07 PM

The eagles drop mcmahon for ..................GARCIA~`lmao~ and this is just ironic. Mcmahon is being chased out of two cities by garcia. [smilie=alpacacall.: [smilie=arrgh.jpg]
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2377048

Varsity

03-21-2006, 10:10 AM

Glenn

03-21-2006, 01:05 PM

http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/football/263758_hawks21.html

Seahawks poised to sign Pro Bowl LB Peterson for seven years, $54 million

Tuesday, March 21, 2006
By DANNY O'NEIL
P-I REPORTER

KIRKLAND -- To call the looming acquisition of linebacker Julian Peterson a trade-off for the departure of guard Steve Hutchinson isn't quite accurate.

They will go down as two separate transactions.

While it's not a trade, Peterson's addition isn't entirely a coincidence, either. The Seahawks are poised for a deal with Peterson in part because of the salary cap space created with Hutchinson's departure to Minnesota. That became official when Monday's 9 p.m. deadline passed and the Hawks didn't match the offer to Hutchinson.

Shortly before, word broke of an agreement between Peterson and Seattle. The team Web site included a line stating Peterson agreed to terms on a multiyear pact and his signing is pending.

The deal was first reported by Adam Schefter of the NFL Network, who said it was a seven-year, $54 million contract with $10 million to be paid in the first year and $18.5 million guaranteed.

Calls to Kevin Poston, Peterson's agent, were not returned Monday.

Peterson, 27, was in Seattle last week. He is a two-time Pro Bowl linebacker from San Francisco, and in 2002 became the first player since the AFL-NFL merger in 1970 to line up at four positions in a game, playing linebacker, defensive end, safety and cornerback.

He had 83 tackles last season, playing 15 games and being named a Pro Bowl alternate in his first year back after suffering a season-ending Achilles injury in 2004.

Whether the Seahawks can make up for the loss of Hutchinson is a question that will be answered in the future. As for the present, Seattle is moving on with more than $20 million in salary-cap space.

The addition of Peterson is a sign of what the Seahawks can do with that money. Seattle is seeking to acquire defensive end John Abraham from the New York Jets. Abraham, 27, has been named to the Pro Bowl in three of his six seasons. The Seahawks have an agreement with the Jets on trade compensation for Abraham. Now Seattle needs to have a long-term agreement with Abraham. His agent has not returned calls, but the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported Abraham wants to play with the Falcons.

Can the Seahawks change his mind? They have cap room, and are set to sign a Pro Bowl linebacker.

Also, the Bears are apparently close with Brian Griese, and the Giants are looking at Keyshawn.

H1Man

03-21-2006, 09:39 PM

Griese reaches five-year deal with Bears

Free-agent quarterback Brian Griese has agreed to a five-year deal with the Chicago Bears, ESPN.com's John Clayton reported Tuesday.

Financial terms are not yet known.

Griese lost his starting job with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to Chris Simms in 2005 when he suffered a season-ending knee injury after leading the club to a 5-1 start.

Griese, 30, completed 112-of-174 passes for 1,136 yards, with seven touchdown passes and seven interceptions in 2005 before suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament.

In eight seasons, Griese has completed 1,463-of-2,318 passes for 16,344 yards, with 103 touchdown passes and 78 interceptions, for a career efficiency rating of 84.8. A former University of Michigan star, Griese has started in 72 of 75 appearances with Denver (1998-2002), Miami (2003) and Tampa Bay (2004-05).
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2378990

Chiefs FB Richardson joins Vikings

The Minnesota Vikings, who essentially played with no fullback on the roster under Mike Tice, have added one of the NFL's best players at the position for the West Coast-style attack that first-year head coach Brad Childress will install for this season.

Two-time Pro Bowl performer Tony Richardson, an 11-year veteran who had played his entire career with the Kansas City Chiefs, on Tuesday reached agreement in principle on a two-year contract, ESPN.com has learned. The deal will pay Richardson about $2.5 million.

Richardson, 34, visited with Minnesota officials over the weekend, received a contract proposal on Monday and told the Vikings he needed a day to consider it. On Tuesday, he ended a long relationship with the Chiefs and with a city where he had become a fixture on and off the field and accepted the deal, which includes a six-figure signing bonus.

There were a number of teams interested in the classy Richardson, and there were even some discussions about re-signing in Kansas City.

Chiefs team president Carl Peterson said he was "personally disappointed" the team could not work out an arrangement to keep Richardson in the fold.

"I made it clear to Tony, as I on have on numerous occasions, that when he is finished with his playing career, I would like him to be a part of the Kansas City Chiefs organization," Peterson said. "That offer and promise still holds and we look forward to seeing Tony in the future."

A former Auburn star, Richardson originally entered the league with Dallas as an undrafted college free agent in 1994 and spent some time on the Cowboys' practice squad that season. He was released, signed with the Chiefs in 1995 and spent the next 11 seasons with the team.

A conventional fullback, one whose statistics aren't indicative of his contribution, Richardson is a solid lead blocker and receiver. His acquisition completes the remaking of the Minnesota backfield, which will be completely overturned from the one that opened the 2005 season, given that Brad Johnson replaces Daunte Culpepper at quarterback and free-agent addition Chester Taylor is the new tailback.

Having a strong character player like Richardson in the locker room will also be a plus for Childress as he attempts to improve the Vikings' image.

Richardson has carried 395 times for 1,576 yards and 15 touchdowns and has 177 receptions for 1,298 yards and nine touchdowns in his career. His best season was in 2000, when he posted career bests for rushing attempts (147) and yards (697) and also added 58 receptions for 468 yards. The durable fullback has played in 163 games and started in 96 of them. Richardson was named to the Pro Bowl squad following the 2003-04 seasons.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2378445

Cowboys release Allen to avoid paying $2M bonus

The Dallas Cowboys released left guard Larry Allen on Tuesday, likely cutting ties to one of the most dominant offensive linemen in NFL history.

Allen, the final player left from Dallas' most recent Super Bowl team, is going into his 13th season. No longer the steamrolling blocker he once was, Allen was due a $2 million roster bonus April 1. The move also saves Dallas about $3.5 million toward next season's salary cap.

"This decision is a tough one for me personally,'' Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said in a statement. "Larry has been the best in pro football for a long time. His ability and performance set a standard for excellence at his position in the NFL for many years, and we are grateful for his contributions to the Dallas Cowboys.''

Dallas could still re-sign the 34-year-old Allen, with Jones even saying the club has "made it clear that the door is open for ... a return to the Cowboys.''

But as a free agent, he can go anywhere he chooses.

Allen's agent, Marvin Demoff, did not immediately return a call to The Associated Press seeking comment.

Offensive line was among Dallas' weaknesses last season, from not providing enough time for quarterback Drew Bledsoe to not opening enough holes for running backs. The arrival of Terrell Owens likely makes it even more important for the line to keep defenders away from Bledsoe.

While Allen wasn't among the biggest offenders, his salary made him expendable. The Cowboys probably already have his replacement in Kyle Kosier, a versatile lineman they signed from Detroit at the start of free agency. Kosier played more guard than tackle in his career, mostly left guard.

Kosier, however, is no Larry Allen.

Praised by Jones as "a sure-fire Pro Football Hall of Famer,'' Allen matched his size (6-foot-3, 325 pounds) with unbelievable strength. He bench-pressed more than 700 pounds, making his annual strength test a must-see event for all his teammates. Plus, he was agile enough to be a terrific pulling blocker, a nightmare for the smaller players he often encountered.

Perhaps the best indication of his ability: Emmitt Smith gained a huge chunk of his NFL rushing record while following ground plowed by No. 73.

Allen was named All-Pro eight times, including his first seven as a full-time starter, 1995-2001. After being injured in '02, he was honored again in '03.

He also was a member of the NFL's all-decade team for the 1990s as a guard.

Allen made the Pro Bowl in 10 of his 12 seasons in Dallas, the most by any offensive player in team history and second only to defensive tackle Bob Lilly's 11 trips. He was chosen at both guard and tackle, joining guard-tackle Chris Hinton and center-guard Bruce Matthews as the only offensive linemen ever picked at multiple spots.

A second-round pick from Sonoma State in 1994, Allen moved into the starting lineup at right tackle as a rookie. He was the right guard from 1995-97, then played left tackle in '97 and '98. He was a stalwart at left guard from '99 through 2005, except for time at right tackle in '02.

Despite his size and success, two things coach Bill Parcells usually likes, their relationship was often strained.

They squabbled over where Allen worked out in the offseason -- on his own, instead of at the team's training facility -- and last summer Allen failed Parcells' conditioning test at the start of training camp, causing him to miss about a week of practice.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2378960

H1Man

03-21-2006, 09:40 PM

Agent says DT Henderson gets big-money deal

Defensive tackle John Henderson signed a six-year contract extension with the Jacksonville Jaguars on Tuesday, which locked up another cornerstone of one of their defense.

Terms of the deal were not released, but Henderson's agent, Tim McGee, said the new contract gave Henderson more guaranteed money than any other NFL tackle.

"I'm happy," Henderson said. "I wanted to be here. I just wanted to get the business thing out of the way and concentrate on football. This is a big step for our team. We've been growing each and every year. I just see good things and am glad I'm still here."

Henderson is the fourth defensive starter, and third lineman, to sign a long-term contract with the Jaguars since early last year.

End Reggie Hayward, cornerback Rashean Mathis and tackle Marcus Stroud each signed five-year contracts that totaled $82 million, including about $30 million guaranteed.

Henderson made his lone Pro Bowl in 2004, but coaches believe he has been equally important to the team's success as Stroud, a three-time Pro Bowler.

Henderson had three sacks and 70 tackles last season, the most by any interior lineman in the AFC.

The 6-foot-7, 328-pound former Tennessee star and first-round draft pick has started every game in four seasons and has 254 tackles and 18½ sacks.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2378389

Glenn

03-22-2006, 11:08 AM

Dolphins are talking to Tommy Maddox to backup Daunte.

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/football/pro/dolphins/sfl-tommy032106,0,6535469.story?coll=orl-dolphins

Black Dynamite

03-22-2006, 11:10 AM

Dolphins are talking to Tommy Maddox to backup Daunte.

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/football/pro/dolphins/sfl-tommy032106,0,6535469.story?coll=orl-dolphins
what about the great aj feely? [smilie=anxious.gif] this is a travesty to his legacy.

H1Man

03-22-2006, 11:13 PM

QB Brooks agrees on two-year deal with Raiders

Unrestricted free agent quarterback Aaron Brooks, the former New Orleans starter released last week after the Saints signed Drew Brees, has reached agreement with the Oakland Raiders on a two-year contract.

Financial details of the contract were not yet available, but league sources said Brooks' compensation will be commensurate to that of many starters in the league, averaging between $4 million-$5 million. The contract will be signed later this week.

The agreement provides the Raiders, whose quarterback depth chart included only untested youngsters Marques Tuiasosopo and Andrew Walter, with a proven starter and a veteran who has amassed impressive numbers in the past. Oakland recently released Kerry Collins, its starter the past two seasons, for salary cap considerations, and has been considering a number of potential replacements.

"It was a win-win scenario," said Brooks' agent, Mason Ashe. "They have a lot of potential, a lot of firepower. It looked like they were just missing the ingredient he adds -- a quarterback of his caliber who has his skills."

It is not surprising that the Raiders settled on Brooks, because he has the kind of live arm and deep passing skills that owner Al Davis has long coveted.

Brooks, 29, met with Raiders coaches and team officials over the past two days and actually prolonged his stay by one day when Oakland indicated it might be interested in signing him. There was also interest over the weekend from Green Bay, the team with which Brooks began his NFL career in 1999.

But the deal with the Raiders, one of the few franchises in the league without a projected starter heading into the spring minicamps, certainly represented Brooks' best opportunity to regain his status atop some club's quarterback depth chart. Tuisasosopo is a terrific athlete, but only has limited experience in his five seasons, and has been inconsistent when given a chance to play. Walter is a big, strong-armed passer, but the third-round choice in 2005 did not take a snap as a rookie.

Some believe that Walter might be the Raiders' quarterback of the future, but the former Arizona State star needs time to develop, and the two-year contract with Brooks will give the Raiders a chance to groom him.

In 85 games, including 82 starts, Brooks has completed 1,563 of 2,771 passes for 19,156 yards, with 120 touchdown passes and 84 interceptions. He has thrown for over 2,800 yards in a season five times and had four straight 3,000-yard campaigns snapped last season. The former University of Virginia standout, chosen by the Packers in the fourth round in 1999 and then traded to New Orleans in 2000, averaged 15.4 starts per season from 2001-2005.

Brooks started all 16 games in every season from 2001-2004, but then was benched for the final month of the 2005 campaign, snapping that streak. While there is no denying Brooks' physical tools, some teammates have questioned his leaderships skills and toughness under fire. Quiet by nature, Brooks can be aloof at times and some have perceived that as a lack of passion.

That said, he was arguably the best starting-caliber quarterback still available in the free agent pool and is still young enough to have several productive seasons.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2380454

Glenn

03-23-2006, 07:15 PM

http://pittsburghlive.com/x/tribune-review/sports/s_436299.html

Vikings sign QB Mike McMahon for $2M

By United Press International

Thursday, March 23, 2006

Quarterback Mike McMahon signed a $2 million, 2-year contract Thursday with the Minnesota Vikings, three days after his release by the Philadelphia Eagles.

McMahon is expected to be the Vikings' backup quarterback behind Brad Johnson, the St. Paul (Minn.) Pioneer Press reported.

McMahon arrived in Minnesota Wednesday for talks with the Vikings. He had been scheduled to leave for Denver but canceled the trip.

"After talking with my agent and thinking it over, I decided this is the best opportunity for me to further my career," McMahon said.

McMahon, entering his sixth NFL season, had a 2-5 record last year with the Eagles as a starter filling in for an injured Donovan McNabb. He completed 45.4 percent of his passes for 1,158 yards and five touchdowns with eight interceptions.

Signing McMahon ends the Vikings' search for an experienced backup to replace Daunte Culpepper. The team is still searching for a developmental quarterback, the newspaper said.

Black Dynamite

03-23-2006, 07:55 PM

So Jeff garcia's next stop is minnesota after this year?

H1Man

03-23-2006, 11:35 PM

Ex-Cowboy star Allen heading to 49ers

One of the most dominant players, regardless of position, in the NFL over the past decade is about to have a new home.

FOXSports.com has learned that former All-Pro Cowboys lineman Larry Allen has agreed to a two-year deal with the San Francisco 49ers. The deal is contingent upon the lineman passing a physical and then actually signing the contract. However, terms have been agreed upon, and it's believed to pay Allen between $4 and $5 million per year.

Allen has been the NFL's premier offensive lineman since coming into the NFL from Sonoma State, a small college close to the 49ers complex. In addition to versatility that has landed him Pro Bowl nods at several different spots on the line, he is also widely considered the most intimidating player in the NFL.

Allen is so strong that many players over the years have come up with mysterious illnesses or injuries the week prior to having to play the perennial Pro Bowler, an ailment that defenders call "Allen-itis."

"It got to the point where you'd see guys pull up with some fake injury in the fourth quarter the week before he'd have to play Larry," Giants Pro Bowl defensive end Michael Strahan once said. "It's sad. You're watching film and he hurts so many guys on film that his opponents don't want to deal with him."

Other team executives and coaches admit that some of their players have fallen down or flopped aside just to get out of Allen's way. His legend has certainly helped as his skills and body have aged.

Getting Allen marks perhaps the 49ers' most significant free-agent pickup since Mike Nolan became head coach. In addition, Allen's former line coach with Dallas, George Warhop, is now the line coach with the 49ers.

Provided Allen passes his physical, he's expected to sign the deal Thursday night or Friday.
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5439346

Cowboys land Vanderjagt as new kicker

Mike Vanderjagt, the NFL's most accurate kicker who was no longer needed in Indianapolis, signed a three-year contract Thursday with the Dallas Cowboys.

Vanderjagt wasn't re-signed by the Colts, who instead signed Adam Vinatieri earlier this week. Vinatieri twice hit winning kicks in the Super Bowl for New England, but the Patriots allowed him to test free agency.

After depending so long on inexperienced or inexpensive kickers, the Cowboys didn't pass on Vanderjagt, a former Pro Bowl kicker and unrestricted free agent. A story posted on the Cowboys Web site reported that the deal was worth $5.4 million, including a $2.5 million signing bonus. Phone messages and an e-mail to the kicker's agent, Gil Scott, weren't returned.

Vanderjagt has the highest field goal accuracy rate in NFL history (217-of-245 kicks, 87.5 percent) and holds the record for making 42 straight. But on his last attempt for the Colts during the AFC divisional playoffs in January, he badly missed a 46-yarder that would have forced overtime against Super Bowl champion Pittsburgh.

"Everyone kind of had it a foregone conclusion that Mike wouldn't be back, but you don't just get rid of guys without being able to replace them," Colts coach Tony Dungy said. "We were fortunate that we were able to replace him with a great, great kicker."

Indianapolis gave Vinatieri a five-year, $12 million deal with a $3.5 million signing bonus.

The Cowboys used three kickers last season, and missed the playoffs with a 9-7 record. Dallas lost twice by three points and had a one-point loss, and the kickers were a combined 20-of-28 on field goals with four misses under 40 yards.

Billy Cundiff was the Cowboys' primary kicker the past four seasons, making 60 of 82 field goals (73 percent) in 53 games. He was released after hurting his leg in training camp but returned in November for six games after Jose Cortez and Shaun Suisham kicked.

But Cundiff was inconsistent, making a team-record 56-yarder against Detroit in his first game back, then missing a 34-yard tiebreaking kick in the fourth quarter four days later against Denver, the Thanksgiving Day game the Cowboys lost in overtime. Cundiff was 5-for-8 and cut before the final game, and Suisham returned for the season finale.

In 2003, Cundiff tied an NFL record with seven field goals in a Monday night victory at the New York Giants.

Since Rafael Septien set most of the team's kicking records from 1978-86, there has been a long line of kickers through Dallas, including Richie Cunningham, Chris Boniol, Eddie Murray and high school teacher Tim Seder, among others. Cundiff was the only one who stayed more than three seasons.

Vanderjagt, who turns 36 Friday, spent his first eight NFL seasons with the Colts after playing in the Canadian Football League (1993, 1996-97) and a season in the Arena Football League. He scored a franchise-record 995 points in Indianapolis, where all his home games were played in a domed stadium.

"Mike was tremendous for us in the time that I was here," said Dungy, who just finished his fourth season in Indianapolis. "He made some kicks that won divisions for us, that won big games, overtime games, and I never thought that he was going to miss when we sent him out."

In 2003, Vanderjagt made all 37 of his field-goal attempts and all 46 extra points. He was 23-of-25 on field goals last season, his long kick being 48 yards.

Vanderjagt's career long field goal is 54 yards, and he's made 14 of 21 kicks from at least 50 yards. He has converted 344 of 346 extra points and scored at least 100 points every season. The last Cowboys kicker with 100 points was Seder with 108 in 2000.

Still, Vanderjagt had another big miss in December 2000 against Miami, when he was wide right on a 49-yard attempt in overtime that would have sent the Colts into the second round of the playoffs. He had field goals of 32, 26 and 50 yards in that game, which the Dolphins won 23-17.

Also Thursday, Dallas signed L.P. LaDouceur, a second-year defensive end who played in 13 games on special teams for the Cowboys last season.
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5438614

H1Man

03-23-2006, 11:37 PM

Patriots re-sign cornerback Chad Scott

Cornerback Chad Scott is staying with New England, one of the first signings by the Patriots in an offseason in which stalwarts like Willie McGinest and Adam Vinatieri left the team.

Scott is a former first-round draft pick who spent most of last season on injured reserve.

He re-signed on Wednesday, a day after Vinatieri, who kicked the game-winning field goals in two of the Patriots' three Super Bowl victories, signed with the Indianapolis Colts.

Last Friday, the Patriots signed wide receiver Reche Caldwell, an unrestricted free agent who spent his first four seasons with San Diego.
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5438364

Azumah retires because of hip, neck pain

Bears cornerback Jerry Azumah retired Thursday because of neck and hip pain the past two seasons, ending a seven-year career with Chicago in which he made the Pro Bowl in 2003.

The 28-year-old Azumah missed most of the preseason after minor hip surgery and lost his starting job to Pro Bowl selection Nathan Vasher in the final year of his contract.

"This has been a great ride," he said during a news conference. "It's nothing to cry about or hold my head down to. Just looking at everything I accomplished and achieved, being here with the Bears and how they've embraced me, has been tremendous."

Azumah had a career-high 92 tackles in 2002. He had 90 tackles, a team-leading four interceptions and his lone Pro Bowl appearance - as a kickoff returner - the following season.

He missed the first four games of 2004 while recovering from neck surgery, and had the hip procedure in training camp last summer. He appeared in 15 regular-season games, playing primarily in nickel situations, and totaled 45 tackles while averaging 22 yards on kickoff returns.

Hip pain was a constant problem, and he injured his neck during a playoff game this season against Carolina. Azumah underwent more invasive hip surgery two months ago.

"I knew I'd be playing in pain," Azumah said. "That was what was understood. I'd be playing with some pain, they'd go in and clean it out and would get me better so I wouldn't miss the season. ... I decided to play until, basically, the wheels fell off."

Azumah's neck also bothered him during the season. He said his hip is fine now and dared reporters to race him in the 40-yard dash.

"My body was talking to me," Azumah said. "I feel like I could go out there and perform at a high level - not the Pro Bowl level I was at. I need to take a different road in life."
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5438500